Gerald Walton Gilliland

Gerald Walton Gilliland, 82, of Cleveland, died Nov. 27, 2025. He was born in Blount County to Lester and Louise Gilliland. Gerald was a 1962 graduate of Cleveland High School and remained a lifelong Cleveland Panther fan.

He operated Gilliland Garage with his brother Leslie for many years before spending 15 years working in the coal mines. He later retired from the Blount County Commission. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents Lester and Louise Gilliland; his brother Leslie Gilliland; and his son Gavin Gilliland.

Gerald is survived by his wife Dianne South Gilliland; his brothers Keith (Saderia) and Rickey Gilliland; his sister Janet Gilliland Ray (Ricky); his son Gardner Gilliland (Stephanie); his grandchildren Peyton (Carsyn), Parker (Skylar), Pierce, Gabe, and Avery; and his great-grandchildren, Gatlin and Lakelyn.

One of Gerald's greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren play in countless sporting events over his lifetime, especially football. In his later years, Gerald especially loved keeping his yard perfect.ly manicured and taking his daily morning Jeep rides with is brother, Keith.

The family received friends Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Cleveland Funeral Home. Gerald was laid to rest at Green's Chapel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gavin Gilliland Memorial Scholarship Fund at Cleveland High School.