Norfolk- Willie Leon Gilliam, 82, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,  in the early hours of the morning, on October 5, 2007.  During his early years, he was employed in the field of building construction, later working for S.L. Nausbaum, Co. He retired after 20 years of loyal service.He was born in Merryhill, N.C. to the late Janie and Wright Welch.  He was a member of New Calvary Baptist Church, Norfolk.  He was a former member of Peterson Chapel Church, N.C.  He also served on the Deacon Board at New Bethlehem Church of Christ Disciples. Willie was an outdoorsman, and had a passion for fishing and gardening.



Mr. Gilliam was predeceased by his wife of 38 years, Emma Jane Gilliam; two daughters, Bessie A. Capehart-Sparrow, Jacqueline M. Gilliam; two sons, Lester M. Berry and William L. Berry.



Left to cherish his memory are four adored daughters, Gloryies J. Gilliam of Norfolk; Willie Mae Young (James) and Doris G. Ridley of Virginia Beach;  Ruby L. Gilliam-Askew (Paul) of Norfolk; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.



A homegoing service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at New Calvary Baptist Church, 800 Virginia Beach Blvd. Norfolk.  Interment will follow at Roosevelt Memorial Park.  Viewing will be held from 2 p.m to 7 p.m Wednesday at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home.  The family will receive relatives and friends at 986 Scott St. Norfolk.