James Lee Gildon

James Lee "Jim" Gildon, 73, of Francesville, IN (formerly of Gary, IN) passed away at his home unexpectedly on Friday, November 7, 2025. He was born on December 31, 1951 in Gary, IN to the late Levi and Alice (Duncan) Gildon. Jim graduated in 1969 from Froebel High School in Gary. In 1971, he married Patricia Warner in Gary and they had two children. In 1986, Jim married Barbara Joyce McBride in Gary. She passed away on March 20, 2010. In 2011, he married Toni Partee. She passed away on February 12, 2023.
Jim was an accomplished bowler. In his younger years, he was an avid DJ with an impressive collection of 45's. He enjoyed traveling, especially road trips across the country. It was well-known that the State of Montana was his favorite place to visit.
Jim retired from Arcelor Mittal as an overhead crane operator after 42 years. His co-workers affectionately called him "Big Jim". For many years, he attended church at the Eternal Word Ministry. He has attended the Medaryville Assembly of God Church since moving to the area nearly 20 years ago.
Throughout his life, Jim served the Lord devotedly and was proud to proclaim his name. He led a prison ministry for a long time. He was a loving father and faithful sibling who will be deeply missed.
James Gildon was a proud Minister at First Church of God in Gary, IN.
He is survived by:
Shahannon Gildon, Daughter
Jamey (Tonda) Gildon, Son
Kelvin (Zeta) Hines, Son
Egypt (Byron) Payne, Step Daughter
Latavia (Darrell) Sharkey, Step Daughter
Michael Laslovich, Step Son
A Host of Grandchildren
Levi Gildon, Brother
Andrea (Charles) Boykin, Sister
Judy Sims, Sister
Many Nieces and Nephews
Numerous Other Relatives
Patricia Florence, Former Wife
Visitation will be from 12 Noon – 1 PM EST Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN
Services will be held at 1 PM EST Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN with Pastor Tom Dewlen officiating.
Private Burial will take place at Osborne Cemetery in Rensselaer, IN.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the Medaryville Assembly of God Church.
Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Medaryville, IN.