William L. "W.L." Gilliland

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. today at Collier-Butler Chapel for Mr. William L. "W.L." Gilliland, 74, Gadsden, who passed away Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2009. Chad Roberts, minister, and Dr. David Wallace, elder Rainbow Church of Christ, will officiate. Burial will be at Antioch Church of Christ Cemetery. Collier-Butler Funeral and Cremation Services directing. Mr. Gilliland was a member of Antioch Church of Christ. He retired from the U.S. Navy as a Chief Petty Officer with 23 years of service and retired from the U.S. government with 27 years of service. He was preceded in death by his son, Timothy "Tim" Gilliland; parents, Howard and Dessie Gilliland; and brother, Freddie Gilliland. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Gladden Gilliland; and brother, Joe Gilliland. W.L. was a good man of few words. His smile was the special gift he gave to all of us. W.L. was married to Ruby 52 wonderful years. "Every day was an adventure." The family would like to extend a special thanks to Alacare Home Health and special nurse, Missy. Pallbearers will be Gary Gladden, Bobby Couch, Troy Smith, John East, Andy Harper and Daniel Nance. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the hour of service today at the funeral home.