- Date Of Birth: January 16, 1942
- Date Of Death: August 30, 2017
- State: Michigan
Joyce E. Gillam, age 75, of Cassopolis, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Wednesday, August 30, 2017, at home in the comfort of her family’s presence.
She was born January 16, 1942 in Volinia, Michigan, the daughter of Leslie and Esther (Hartman) Gunterman.
She married Duane Gillam March 26, 1960 in Calvin Township, Michigan. After more than twenty eight years of marriage, he preceded her in death June 27, 1988.
Joyce will always be remembered for being everyone’s Grandma Gillam in town. She was known for being politically opinionated and was not afraid to voice herself. She would take it upon herself on several occasions to write to the local newspapers.
Joyce loved her family. Spending time with them was very important to her.
Joyce enjoyed volunteering her time to the domestic violence shelter.
Joyce’s family will always remember her passion for cooking. The macaroni and cheese, her potato salad, cinnamon rolls and Christmas cookies will definitely be missed.
Joyce had a passion for hunting and eating Morel mushrooms. Corresponding was very important to Joyce. She was adamant in sending cards whether it was words of encouragement, get well, birthdays, holidays, basically any special occasion.
Joyce never complained during her illness. She would always say, “It is what it is!” Joyce was “The Real Deal!” Joyce will be greatly missed by family and friends.
She is survived by three daughters, Elaine (Gary) Hart of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Teal (Darryll) Jones of Three Rivers, Michigan, Melanie (David) Gray of Chicago, Illinois; five sons, Duane (Donna) Gillam of Cassopolis, Michigan, Jeffrey (Elizabeth) Gillam of Cassopolis, Michigan, Kelly (Annette) Gillam of Buchanan, Michigan, Damon Gillam of Cassopolis, Michigan, Trevor (Sharon) Gillam of Gilbert, Arizona; twenty-nine grandchildren; a host of great grandchildren; two honorary sisters, Sue Pompey of Marcellus, Michigan and Verna Knox of Chicago, Illinois; a brother in law, Donnie Gillam; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband Duane; her parents; two sisters, Avis Evans and Nita Gunterman; daughter Diane Berry; and son Darnell Gillam.
