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Columbia Today
By the People, for the People
Jimmy Leon Gilliam, 76, Remembered for Joyful Spirit and Mechanical Talents
Longtime Columbia resident and Parkway Baptist Church member passed away on February 26, 2026.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Jimmy Leon Gilliam, a 76-year-old resident of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away at his home on February 26, 2026. Gilliam was known for his playful spirit, love of antique cars and horses, and natural mechanical talents. He was a longtime member of Parkway Baptist Church and is survived by his wife of 49 years, Donna Marie Deal Gilliam, as well as his son, daughter, grandson, and other family members.
Why it matters
Gilliam's obituary highlights the life of a beloved community member who was active in his local church and known for his kind-hearted and joyful personality. His passing is a loss felt by his family, friends, and the broader Columbia community.
The details
Jimmy Leon Gilliam was born on August 18, 1949, in Franklin, Tennessee. He graduated from Franklin High School in 1967 and was of the Baptist faith. Gilliam married Donna Marie Deal on October 14, 1976, and they shared 49 wonderful years together. He was a longtime member of Parkway Baptist Church, where he was known for buying candy to pass out to children and adults alike. Gilliam had a natural talent for mechanics and often spent his evenings working on tractors after a full day at the plant. He was also an avid collector of antique cars and horses.
- Gilliam passed away on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
- A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 12:00 PM.
- Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 PM, and on Monday, March 2, from 11:00 AM until the service hour.
The players
Jimmy Leon Gilliam
A 76-year-old resident of Columbia, Tennessee, who passed away on February 26, 2026. He was known for his playful spirit, love of antique cars and horses, and natural mechanical talents.
Donna Marie Deal Gilliam
Gilliam's wife of 49 years.
Parkway Baptist Church
The church where Gilliam was a longtime member.
The takeaway
Gilliam's obituary highlights the impact of a life well-lived, filled with joy, community involvement, and a passion for the things he loved. His legacy will continue to be felt by those who knew and loved him.
