Baron Gene Gilliam

Baron 'Byron' Gilliam age 65, of Hammond, Indiana passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and lots of love.

Byron was a hard-working man who showed his love through actions more than words. He dedicated his life to providing for his family and was always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help, especially if it gave him a reason to make a trip to Menards or the auto parts store - two places that he loved to go. 

He enjoyed country music, singing songs and playing his guitar at the dining room table, fixing cars, and making memories with his family. Some favorites include four-wheeling in the back field and at the Badlands. He loved watching scary movies with his girls, and would always bring home chocolate or beef jerky for them from the gas station. He was known for being stubborn and always thinking he had the right answer, but those who knew him best knew that it came from a place of love.

One of Byron's greatest joys was being a grandpa. Whether it was laying on the floor to play toys or spending hours with them over FaceTime, he always made time for them. He would let them talk nonstop, show him every little thing that they wanted, and spin him around on the phone without ever complaining. They knew his voice, his patience and his unconditional love.

Byron is preceded in death by his parents, Yvonne and Mickey. He is survived by his wife, Laura; his children, Justin (Crystal), Gil (Meagan), Tabitha (Carlos), Brandi (Adan), Ana, Kiaralee, and Gina; his siblings, Philip, Jim, JoAnn, Debbie and Felicia; many grandchildren and even a few great-grandchildren!

His family will be planning a celebration of life in the summer. 

In lieu of flowers, they ask that donations be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital who helped save his grandson's life: http://fundraising.stjude.org/goto/keepcjstrong

Byron's greatest pride was the family that he built and his legacy will move on through them forever.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Baron Gene Gilliam, please visit our floral store.