Melvin Rubin Gilliam

Melvin Rubin Gilliam, 70, of Leola, Ark., went to heaven to be with his Lord on Jan. 8, 2011. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Sharon Woods Gilliam, his youngest son Mitchell Edward Gilliam, parents Rubin and Cora Gilliam, brothers Lewis, Charles, and Bud Gilliam, sisters Louise Gilliam and Patsy Gilliam Hoyt. He is survived by his children: Sherry Gilliam Mays and husband Moe Mays of League City, Texas, and Melvin R. Gilliam Jr. of Arlington, Texas. Also by grandchildren which he was known as "Pappaw" to: Mathew Mays, Melissa Mays Tittle and husband James, Mason Mays and fiance Melissa Nicole Williams, Melody Gilliam, Shannon Gilliam, Megan Gilliam, and Ashley Gilliam. He was also father-in-law to Liz Gilliam Wright and Sherry Lynn Boyd. He is also survived by his sister Wanda Allen of League City, Texas. Visitation will be 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 10, 2011 at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011 at Benton Funeral Home with Rev. Moe Mays officiating. Burial will be in Tulip Cemetery with Bethlehem Masonic Lodge officiating the graveside ceremony. Arrangements by Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.com.