Lillie Gilliam

Life and Death:

Lillie Faye Gilliam, age 80, gained her wings on September 7, 2022. She arrived into this world on December 16, 1941, born to Armetta Green and Ed Hamilton in Troup, TX.

Education:

Lillie graduated from Arp Industrial High School in Arp, Texas.

Workforce:

Joining other family members, Lillie excitedly accepted her first employment position at Tyler Junior College in the cafeteria, where students would begin to think of her as a mom away from home. She would take students home during breaks and treat them as her own. She would create bonds that were lifelong. Her children would grow up to think of these young ladies as “bonus sisters.” As the years went by, the number of adopted children would increase exponentially and eventually included not only daughters, but also sons. Upon leaving, Lillie went to work in the deli for Brookshires, Store #41, which was her last employment before leaving to take a permanent rest from the workforce.

“The Teacake Lady”:

Years later, Lillie would try her hands at making teacakes following in her mother’s footsteps. She successfully perfected her recipe which included so much love, she became affectionately known across East Texas, the State, and even Nationally as “The Teacake Lady.” She had customers out of state and would gladly mail their orders to them. Anyone who ever tasted her teacakes knew they were in for a divine treat.

Her Disposition:

Lillie was a hard worker and a resilient figure in the face of adversity. She had an unassuming and disarming smile that could put anyone at ease, from newborns to the elderly. Lillie’s antics were legendary and those who knew her have their own stories to tell. She said what she meant and meant what she said. Her sense of humor was second to none, and she was as compassionate as she was funny. Lillie could find the silver lining to keep pushing forward in any situation. Lillie was indisputably special. She represented the good that we all need every day in our lives. She was one of a select few who could quickly rise to meet the most difficult challenges with a smile. We are so proud to have been able to call Lillie Gilliam our mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Her spirit will reside within each of us that encountered her during her 80 years of life.

Her Hobbies and Her Habits:

Lillie Faye loved to travel. She was adventurous and willing to explore new experiences. Lillie was young at heart and a jazzy dresser from her hat to her shoes. She had a hat collection that was admired by many. Lillie loved the Dallas Cowboys and WWE. There wasn’t much you could say bad about “her” boys. Win or lose, she was a Cowboy fan for life.  

Service to the Lord and Community:

Over the years, Lillie would serve in various roles in several organizations. She would serve on the Pastor’s Aide Committee for many years at New Canaan Baptist Church, where she was a faithful member until death. Sis. Gilliam was currently a member of the Original East Texas Baptist Association (OETBA). She dutifully served in varied membership and leadership roles which included: President of the Texas Education Baptist State Convention Banquet and Prayer Breakfast, the Georgia Callaway Luncheon, the Texas Education Baptist State Convention Lois Black Fashion Share Luncheon, and the Director of the Texas Education Baptist State Convention Ushers Ministry Food Pantry. She also worked with East Texas Baptist Longview District Association and Greater East Texas Baptist Association, the Christ Center Association, and the Deep East Texas Baptist Association. She was active in the women’s ministry of the district and state levels until her health slowed her down. In the Troup, Smith County, and surrounding communities, Sis. Gilliam was known to cook and take meals to many. She also scheduled time to serve as a volunteer at The Lord’s House Food Bank in Tyler.

Family Gone Before Her:

Lillie was predeceased by her parents, Armetta Green & Ed Hamilton; son, Antonio Gilliam; sisters, Earnestine Deleon and Georgia Lake; brothers, Eddie Lee Hamilton, Benny Lee Smith, John E. Smith, & Richard C. Smith.

Cherishing Her Memories:

Lillie is survived by her daughters, Yvonda Gilliam, LaQuita Gilliam, Lea Etta Gilliam Hudson (Michael), & Kendra Gilliam; son, Henry Gilliam (Tiffany); 18 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; sisters, Serena Prince (Leslie) & Betty McDaniel; brother-in-law, Joe DeLeon, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, lovingly adopted daughters and sons, and friends.

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