Sammy Leon Gilliard

Sammy Leon Gilliard, 77, of Fayetteville, NC, passed away peacefully with family at his bedside on Saturday, August 10th, at Brighton Gardens of Raleigh. His birthplace was Douglas, Georgia, where he was born to Leon “Loy” Gilliard and Mary Eloise Carter, both of whom have passed away. He grew up in Chadbourne with his mom and late stepfather, Eugene Davis. He later established his residence in Fayetteville, where he nurtured his family and made a lasting impact on the community.

Sammy’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. He is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Broadwell, and her husband, David of Garner; his son, Jason Gilliard, and his wife, Roxanne; and his daughter, Kelly Campbell, and her husband, Ben of Fayetteville. His grandchildren, Elijah Broadwell of Morehead City, Sam Broadwell, and Levi Broadwell of Garner, as well as Christian Campbell, Mackenzie Gilliard, Vivian Campbell, Noah Gilliard of Fayetteville, and a host of nieces and nephews. Survivors also include half-brothers,Gary Davis of Oak Island and Rick Davis of Durham; half-sister, Carolyn Davis of Lumberton; stepbrothers, Billy Davis of Moncure and Gene Davis of Lake Waccamaw; and stepsister, Elaine Meares of Cerro Gordo.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 39 years, Vivian, whom he faithfully supported through her battle with cancer. His siblings also predeceased him: brothers, Edward, Ronnie, and Wayne Gilliard; sister, Anne Gilliard; half-brother, Terry Davis, and stepbrother, Larry Davis.

Before his military service, Sammy attended Southeastern Community College, graduating in automotive mechanics.  A decorated Vietnam combat veteran, Sammy served honorably in the 101st Airborne Division as a crew chief and door gunner on a Huey UH-1 helicopter. Following his military service, Sammy began his career at Kelly Springfield, now Goodyear, where he rose to the position of area manager.

Sammy was a man of deep faith and devotion to his church, often volunteering his time to make cotton candy, popcorn, and snow cones for community events. His generous spirit, unshakable optimism, resilience, and faithfulness were evident in everything he did. Dedicated to his wife and children, Sammy will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, and the love he shared with all who knew him.

Funeral service will take place Saturday, August 17th at Fayetteville Community Church in Fayetteville NC at 3:00 PM with family visitation in the sanctuary at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Balm in Gilead Family Counseling Ministries, balmingileadnc.org

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