Walter Clarence-Gilliam-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Smith, Bizzell & Warner Funeral Home

Walter Clarence "Waldo" "Piggy" Gilliam

Aug 31, 1944 - Nov 28, 2025

Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

Condolences to the Gilliam family in this challenging time. "Pig" and I enjoyed a friendship akin to family, talking regularly and laughing always. I will miss the conversations and banter but this is a part of life that he and I spoke on and came to understand as part of a process. Thank you Pig for being my friend. "J Romey"

To the family,

Gilliam's at peace. Think of the good times and smile. For comfort read Ecclesiastes 3:1-15,17,19,20,22. May The Most High God bring you peace during this time.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

A great soul, friend and class mate, he always greeted me with a smile and concerned about the welfare of others

Leon Jacobs

Sending thoughts and prayers your way.

Deepest sympathy to the family. Our loss is heavens gain. Vernishia and family.

Obituary

Walter Clarence's Obituary

Walter Clarnece Gilliam affectionately known as “Piggy an “Waldo” the sixth child of Reverend Mayo and Culer Gilliam was born August 31, 1944, in Cairo, Illinois.  He attended Douglas School, graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School of 1962, pitched for Roosevelt’s Varsity Baseball Team and was Gary All-Star MVP.  And accomplished artis and graphic designer, he studied at Alabama A&M University. Chicago State University, UIC and PNC,

Previously employed by Ford Stamping, Inland Steel, American Can, Gary Police and retired as a U.S. Criminal Investigating Lieutenant.   Founding Member of H & H INC., Seven Blue Knights, U.S.  Army Vietnam Veteran, Life Member VFW Post #2151 and Amvets Post #6, American Legion Post #270. Active Member of St. John MBC, Gary, IN.

He enjoyed billiards, bid-whist, pinochle, jazz, gospel music, cooking photography, loved painting, sports and traveling.

Walter is preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law: Rudolph Rainge and Linnel Ford; sister, Doroty Gilliam- Ford.

He leaves to cherish his memory son, Jeramine (Brittney) Duff; granddaughter, Angel Walker, sisters: Thelma Rainge, Arlessie McNeil; brothers: Oliver (Mary Brown) Gilliam, Marvin (Cora) Gilliam and a host of nieces, nephews' other family members and friends.

Read More