Tribute & Message From The Family
Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend
James W. Gilland, 96, recently of Olmsted Township and formerly of Atlanta, GA passed away Thursday August 16, 2018. He was born on February 22, 1922 in Lexington, VA to Morris and Sarah (nee McCoy) Gilland.
James attended and graduated from West Point in Military Science and Texas A&M with a Master's Degree in Civil Engineering. He retired as a Colonel after faithfully serving in the US Army for 30 years; then retired from MARTA in Atlanta, GA after working as a civil engineer for 10 years. James was a loyal member of the Oak Grove United Methodist Church and an Officer in SAME. He enjoyed sailing, automotive tinkering, crossword puzzles, and everything about Civil War History. James loved serving those in need at the Toco Hills Community Alliance in Atlanta, GA.
Beloved husband of 58 years to his sweetheart, Ella Claire (nee Hunter); loving father of James (Kristin); dear grandfather of Benjamin, Cassidy and Lorelei; uncle and friend to many.
Preceded in death by his parents Morris and Sarah Gilland; brother Morris and sister Sarah.
Memorial contributions in James' name may be forwarded to Oak Grove UMC 1722 Oak Grove Rd., Decatur, GA 30033 or Toco Hills Community Alliance 1790 Lavista Rd.N.E. Atlanta, GA 30329
Family will receive friends on Wednesday August 22 from 4-7pm at BUSCH FUNERAL HOME 32000 Detroit Ave., Avon. www.buschcares.com 440-937-6175
Condolence & Memory Journal
I was greatly saddened to learn of Jim's transition and offer condolences and prayers of comfort to his family and many friends
Posted by
Charles Henry Atkinson - Atlanta, GA - Coworker November 19, 2018
Jim was a real professional to work for during my 20 years at MARTA. Without his guidance, the beginning of a successful rail construction program would have been more difficult to achieve. My thoughts go out to his family. We will will all miss you Jim.
Posted by
barry hertslet - Amelia Island, FL - Coworker November 19, 2018
What a wonderful and gentle man and such a privilege to know and work with him at OGUMC.
God bless you all.
Posted by
Candy Casarella - Atlanta, GA September 03, 2018
Jim and family,
Thoughts and prayers of support during this difficult time.
Diann Meredith RN, UH Hospice, SJMC
Posted by
Diann Meredith diann.meredith@uhhospitals.org - Westlake, OH - Acquaintance August 22, 2018
Jim and Claire lived around the corner from us in Atlanta. I always loved seeing him out walking - and he was always out walking! I was so sad when they moved, but they were excited to be closer to their son, his wife and the grandchildren. Such a lovely man. So very sorry for your loss.
Posted by
Cameron Fahsel - Neighbor August 20, 2018
Our sympathies for the family. I go to OG. My father Marion Trotti roomed with Jim during part of the time they were cadets at West Point
Posted by
James Trotti August 18, 2018
Claire, We have often thought of the two of you and wondered how you were doing. Health issues have prevented us from attending OG for several years and as with all good intentions we didn't keep up with those we worked with and knew well. We share in your sorrow of losing Jim. He was a wonderful person and I especially enjoyed our time in the "Soup Kitchen" working along side the two of you.
Marijo & Jerry Culwell
Posted by
Marijo Culwell - Decatur, GA - Friend August 18, 2018
Jim, We were so fortunate to have met your Dad, and Dave still talks about the lovely home cooked dinner your Mom and Dad had for him in Atlanta. Please accept our condolences and we are sure your Dad was so proud of you and your beautiful family! Sending prayers and hugs to you all!
Cindy and David Ulrich
Posted by
Cynthia Ulrich - Sun City Center, FL - Family August 18, 2018
Jim and Kristin, I will carry always with me memories of Jim and Claire and their time with us at OGUMC. I worked with them in the Serving Ministry area. Such wonderful sweet children of God. At a meeting just weeks ago, I had ask Anne for a recent report. Know all who were in their presence were blessed. Love in Christ, Madge Watson, Atlanta
Posted by
Madge Watson - Atlanta, GA - Acquaintance August 18, 2018
You are all in our prayers. Hugs from your Cincinnati family.
Posted by
Carol Schuman - Cincinnati, OH - Family August 17, 2018
