Leon Gilliam

Leon Gilliam, Jr., age 69, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. A private man with a strong spirit, Leon lived a life of great independence, quiet adventure, and, in his final months, unexpected connection.
Born on October 4, 1955, in Norfolk, Virginia, Leon was the fourth of many children born to Leon Gilliam, Sr. and Alice Elizabeth Wilkins, both of whom preceded him in death. Though estranged from his family for many years, Leon carried the strength and resolve that reflected his roots.
Leon graduated from Norfolk State College in 1978 and soon after joined the United States Army. Though the exact timeline of his active service is unknown, he continued his military career in the U.S. Army Reserve and was promoted to the rank of Captain in the Quartermaster Corps in May 1985. His commitment to service was a quiet but proud cornerstone of his life.
Outside of the military, Leon held various positions in sales and led a life of travel and independence. In his retirement, he explored the world and lived in diverse places including Puerto Rico, Brazil, Augusta (GA), Dallas (TX), and the Philippines.
In January 2025, experiencing ongoing and painful symptoms that had been misdiagnosed, Leon made the decision to return to the U.S. for medical care at the VA. Drawn by the VA's reputation and a fondness for Indianapolis sports, he landed at the Indianapolis Airport on January 15 after a long journey from Manila. Stranded, in pain, and without a working phone or plan, Leon found himself alone-until a chance encounter changed everything.
A woman returning from a business trip noticed him waiting and offered her assistance. That small act of kindness led to a deep friendship that would carry Leon through the final chapter of his life. Within days, she helped him seek care at the VA, where he was diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic prostate cancer. Leon later told hospital staff he believed God had sent him to Indianapolis to find the angel who would take care of him.
With support from his new circle of friends and medical providers, Leon found comfort, companionship, and peace. While he provided few details of his life, he revealed he had been lifelong ladies' man and shared his love for Glen Campbell's music, a fitting soundtrack to his quietly bold life.
Leon passed away in his apartment, just as he wished, with his friend by his side. His life, though private, touched many in his final months and reminded those around him of the power of human connection-even late in life.
A service with military honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, at Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis. Leon's gratitude extends to the staff of the Roudebush VA Hospital, Maple Park Village Senior Community, the staff and residents of Crestwood Village North, and the ANEW Hospice Team-especially Kim, KeShell, Suzanne, and Wendy-whose compassion made a lasting impact.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, ANEW Hospice Make A Wish Fund, or a charity of your choosing.
Arrangements entrusted to Simplicity Funeral & Cremation Care. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Leon, please visit our Tree Store.