Charles Allen Gilliam Sr.

1937 - 2025

Charles Allen Gilliam, Sr., 87, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025. Charles was born on September 11, 1937 in Cincinnati, OH to James Thomas (JT) and Ruby Gilliam. Charles enlisted in the Air Force at the age of 17 and showed an aptitude for air traffic control. He was stationed at Langley AFB in Hampton, VA. When his enlistment was over, he was hired by the FAA and worked at Norfolk Airport. In 1964 he moved to Leesburg when Washington ARTCC opened. He worked as a controller and retired as a military liaison after 57 years. Charles enjoyed golfing, fishing, gardening, and the monthly lunches at Spanky's with the FAA Old Timers from ZDC. Most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family. To them he will always be Gagee. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, Dolly, his younger sister, Connie Harris Combs, and his son Charles Allen Gilliam, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Peggy, his children James (Gil) Gilliam (Kathy), Sherrie Kipps (Don), and daughter-in-law Sammi Gilliam, his grandchildren: Sara Gilliam, James T. Gilliam (Parvina); Jenna Libbares (Dave); Laura Kipps, Kristen Beals (Brad), Joshua Kipps (Sami), and great grandchildren: Ari, Emi and Grady Libbares; Laurelin and Samuel Beals. A Celebration of Life service will be on September 5, 2025. Visitation from 11am - 12pm with the service from 12pm - 1pm at the Colonial Funeral Home, Leesburg, VA. The family will observe a private interment at Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Charles' name to: The Alex Manfull Fund, for research in the field of PANS/PANDAS, neuroimmune disorders, https://secure.lglforms.com/form.../s/eK3YR0sju9eaosdrASonXg Charles Allen Gilliam, Sr.