News Summary
Clyde Berton Gilliam, aged 83, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on May 9, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication to his community, and a loving family. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a dedicated employee at Norfolk Southern Railroad, he was an active member of Lookout Valley Baptist Church. His contributions to his church and family will be remembered by many, as well as his strong values and kind heart. Visitation and funeral arrangements have been announced for this community stalwart.
Chattanooga Resident Clyde Berton Gilliam Passes Away at 83
Clyde Berton Gilliam, aged 83, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on May 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to both his faith and family. Gilliam was a well-respected member of his community, known for his loving and servant heart.
Born on January 10, 1942, in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, Gilliam was the son of the late Garrett Gilliam and Jeanette Collins Gilliam. He is survived by his wife, Earline Wilkinson Gilliam, alongside their children, Berton Gilliam and Aleisha Hardison, as well as several grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Military and Career Background
Clyde Gilliam served in the United States Air Force for four years and later dedicated over three decades of his life to the Norfolk Southern Railroad, where he worked until retirement. His work ethic and commitment were evident both in his professional life and in his roles within his church community.
Church Involvement and Community Contributions
Gilliam was an active member of Lookout Valley Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and assistant treasurer for many years. His contributions to the church and efforts in various missions reflected his strong values and deep commitment to helping others. He was known for enjoying outdoor activities, particularly spending quality time with his family, which included many grandchildren, all of whom looked up to him with great affection.
Family and Legacy
Along with his beloved wife Earline, Gilliam is survived by his son Berton, daughter Aleisha, and sister Joyce Haskew. His grandchildren include Shelby Kramm, Kyla Burr, Zoe Gilliam, Trent Hardison, and Allie Gilliam, with the family also sharing a bond with great-grandchild Mary Helen Headrick. Clyde’s family recalls his spirit and dedication fondly, and his presence will be missed by many, including a number of nieces, nephews, and special friends.
Clyde was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother Clinton Gilliam, sister Julia Hookey, and granddaughter Hailey Hardison. His family takes comfort knowing his life inspired others and that his legacy will continue through the lives he touched.
Visitation and Funeral Details
Visitation for Clyde Berton Gilliam will take place on Friday, May 16, from 1 PM to 3:30 PM ET at Lookout Valley Baptist Church, located at 23 Lilac Ave., Chattanooga, TN. The funeral service is scheduled for the same day at 3:30 PM ET and will be officiated by Pastor Troy Wallister and Laymen Darrell Smith.
Following the service, Clyde will be laid to rest at Sequatchie Valley Memorial Gardens in Jasper, Tennessee. The pallbearers for the service will include Trent Hardison, Cole Headrick, Kyle Kramm, Garrett Burr, Eric Jeffords, and Gary Gilliam. James Haskew will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
Contributions in Memory
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lookout Valley Baptist Missions or Hacoba Care Ministry, reflecting Gilliam’s continued commitment to his faith and community even after his passing. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Tate Funeral Home, LLC, located in Jasper, Tennessee.
Clyde Berton Gilliam will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community member. His impact on his family and church will last far beyond his years.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Clyde Berton Gilliam Passes Away at 83
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- WATE: List of Those Owed Money by the State of Tennessee
- Google Search: Clyde Berton Gilliam
- Tate Funeral Home: Funeral Arrangements
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
