Larry Gilliland

"Every time a bell rings, an Angel gets his wings"

Larry Edward Gilliland, 81 of Abilene gained his wings on Saturday August 17, 2024.

Memorial services are 11:00am on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at First Christian Church 5125 Antilley Rd. with Rev. Greg Morris officiating and Mark Young, co-officiating. Arrangements are with The Hamil Family Funeral Home 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd.

Larry was born on August 13, 1943 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to James and LaRue (Geer) Gilliland. He grew up in Odessa, TX and attended Permian High School. He met his wife, Linda Vaughan in Midland and they were married on September 27, 1967 and they spent 56 wonderful years together.

They moved to Abilene where they raised two children, Larry and Jenna.

Larry worked for Mrs. Bairds Bread for 36 years and enjoyed playing golf and dancing with his wife. He was a dedicated Christian and spent many hours volunteering at First Christian Church.

Larry was a loyal friend and thoughtful neighbor who was always ready to help. He never met a stranger, was the life of the party and had such a sparkle in this world.

Larry became a papa in 1999, loved his grandchildren very much and secured his title as the GOAT; (Greatest of all Time). He embraced his role and made a bond that will last forever.

Survived by his wife, Linda (Vaughan) Gilliland; son, Larry Gilliland and wife, Lisa; daughter, Jenna Gilliland Stephens and husband, Gary and two grandsons; Max and Jack Stephens. Brothers, James and Bob Gilliland and their families and sister, Ann Gilliland Wadley and her family, many special nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the First Christian Church Building Fund at 5125 Antilley Rd. Abilene, Texas 79606 or to Hendrick Hospice at https://www.hendrickhealth.org/give/donate-online