Longtime Columbia Resident Steve Dennis Gilliam Dies at 69

Gilliam operated family farm and appliance business with late wife Connie

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:55pm

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Steve Dennis Gilliam, a 69-year-old resident of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026 at Maury Regional Medical Center. Gilliam continued his family's farming legacy and also owned an appliance service company with his late wife Connie. He was remembered as a pillar in the community who enjoyed spending time with loved ones, watching old westerns, fishing, and cooking favorite dishes.

Why it matters

Gilliam's passing marks the end of an era for his family's multi-generational farm and appliance business, which had been cornerstones of the Columbia community for decades. His obituary highlights the importance of family, community, and tradition in rural Tennessee.

The details

Steve Dennis Gilliam lived his entire life in Columbia, Tennessee, taking over the family farm after his father's death. He and his late wife Connie also owned and operated an appliance service company together. Gilliam was known for his love of laughter, spending time with loved ones, watching classic Western TV shows, fishing for catfish, and cooking favorite dishes like banana pudding and asparagus casserole. In his later years, he took joy in watching his cows graze in the fields.

  • Steve Dennis Gilliam passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 9:22 pm.
  • A small graveside service will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 at 12 PM at Rock Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.
  • The family will receive friends from 5-7PM on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at Heritage Funeral Home.

The players

Steve Dennis Gilliam

A 69-year-old resident of Columbia, Tennessee who continued his family's farming legacy and also owned an appliance service company with his late wife Connie.

Connie Gilliam

Steve Gilliam's late wife, with whom he owned and operated an appliance service company.

Terri

The mother of Steve Gilliam's children.

Michael Gilliam

One of Steve Gilliam's sons.

Josh Gilliam

One of Steve Gilliam's sons.

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The takeaway

Gilliam's obituary highlights the enduring importance of family, community, and tradition in rural Tennessee, where multi-generational farms and small businesses have long been the backbone of local economies and social fabric. His passing marks the end of an era for his family's legacy in Columbia.