Richard Otto Gilliland Sr.

Richard O. Gilliland, 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 2, 2025, in Bloomington. Born on August 1, 1937, in the same town where he would spend his entire life, Richard, affectionately known as Dickie, was a Man of strength and joy to all who knew him.
As the eldest of five children, Richard stepped into a role of responsibility early in life after the passing of his father, Ivan Gilliland. Alongside his mother, Mary Ratliff Gilliland, he helped to raise his siblings, leaving a legacy of love and resilience. Though his sister Carol Jones and brother Billy Gilliland have predeceased him, his brother Robert Gilliland Sr., with his spouse Nancy, and sister Mary Ann Robertson continue to honor his memory. His life was further enriched by the presence of his beloved uncle, Otto Bo Ratliff, who was a father figure to Richard and his siblings after their father's passing.
Richard's high school years were marked by his exceptional talent on the basketball court along with other sports. A graduate of University High School in 1956, he was a starting player He was proud of the fact that his HS team got to play against Oscar Robertson who played for Crispus Attucks, but later went on to play professional basketball.
During high school, Richard began working at Barnard Auto to support his family. He then dedicated many years to Colonial Bread until his retirement, forming lasting friendships with colleagues like Jim, Durward, Sam, Kenny, Ron, Larry, Danny, and Stevie. His work ethic also led him to contribute to Robert Gilliland Excavating and Best Beers, where he worked with Tom, Josh, JD, Randy, and Spider.
Richard's personal life was filled with love and companionship. He met his future wife, Peggy, right after high school, and they began dating in 1956 marrying a year later in 1957. His family grew to include his daughter Dottie and her companion Brad Stockwell; his sons "Rocky" Richard Jr. and the late Ricky. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Michelle Cox with her spouse Anthony, Randy Sherer with his spouse Katie, and Jay Gilliland, as well as many special great-grandchildren. Though Peggy passed away in 1987, Richard found companionship with Judy, who survives him.
A man of many interests, Richard's life was full of outdoor adventures. He was an avid card player, enjoyed camping, and enjoyed big fish fries hosted by his brother Robert Sr and wife Nancy. His love for riding his mule, Smokey, and his passion for mushroom and ginseng hunting were well-known. He shared several fishing and hunting trips with his son Rocky, grandsons Randy and Jay, brother Robert Sr., nephews, Robert Jr., Tim, Gregory, Branson, Joe-Bill, Marty, Mickey, Eddie-B; brothers in-law Marshall, Russell, Eddie, Jerry "Elmo", the famous "Uncle Bo." and special friends, Ronnie Clouse, Rick Stanger, and Brad Stockwell. Richard also enjoyed golfing and was grateful for the friendship of Dick and John Wheeler at Pinewoods Golf Course. A creative spirit, he invented the deer hunting pocket seat and was a proud member of the Teamsters Union.
Richard's sense of humor and friendly demeanor made him a friend to everyone he met. He and his Uncle Bo served as father figures to his brother Robert Sr., and he cherished the special bond he shared with his nephew Robert Jr., who was born on his birthday. Their annual tradition of taking a picture together was a highlight of his year.
In his final days, Richard received compassionate care from Nurse Practitioner Marta Heshelman, the staff at Monroe Hospital including Dr. Singh, the nurses Teresa and Ally, and medical aid Tiffany at Hospice House. He was also lovingly attended to by caregivers Cindy and Sierra Sullivan and the team at McCormick Creek facility, Greg and Eric. Richard's family send a special thank you to each person that contributed to his care.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 9th at Chandler Funeral Home from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm with the funeral service at 1:00 pm. Interment is to follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens.