Celebrating the Life of Walter Clarence Gilliam, Community Leader

Walter Clarence Gilliam, known affectionately as “Piggy” and “Waldo,” passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of service and creativity. Born on August 31, 1944, in Cairo, Illinois, he was the sixth child of Reverend Mayo and Culer Gilliam. His journey through life was marked by various accomplishments, both personal and professional.

Gilliam attended Douglas School and graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School in 1962, where he distinguished himself as a pitcher for the varsity baseball team, earning the title of Gary All-Star MVP. His passion for learning led him to further his education at several institutions, including Alabama A&M University, Chicago State University, the University of Illinois at Chicago, and Purdue University Northwest, where he honed his skills in arts and graphic design.

In his professional career, Gilliam held various roles, including positions at Ford Stamping, Inland Steel, and American Can. He served as a Criminal Investigating Lieutenant for the Gary Police Department, ultimately retiring from this role after many years of dedicated service. His contributions to law enforcement were significant, and he was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during the Vietnam War.

Community Involvement and Personal Interests

Walter Gilliam was a founding member of H & H INC. and actively participated in organizations such as Seven Blue Knights, VFW Post #2151, Amvets Post #6, and American Legion Post #270. His commitment to his community was further exemplified by his active membership at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Gary, Indiana.

Beyond his professional and community engagement, Gilliam had a wide range of interests. He enjoyed playing billiards, bid-whist, and pinochle, and he had a deep appreciation for jazz and gospel music. His talents extended to cooking, photography, and painting, showcasing his creative side. Traveling also played a significant role in his life, allowing him to explore new cultures and experiences.

Gilliam is remembered fondly by his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Dorothy Gilliam-Ford, and brother-in-law Rudolph Rainge. He is survived by his son, Jeramine Duff, and daughter-in-law Brittney, along with granddaughter Angel Walker. His siblings, Thelma Rainge, Arlessie McNeil, Oliver Gilliam (Mary Brown), and Marvin Gilliam (Cora), as well as brother-in-law Linnel Ford, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members, will cherish his memory.

Visitation for Walter Clarence Gilliam will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Smith, Bizzell and Warner Funeral Home Chapel, located at 4209 Richard G. Hatcher Blvd, Gary, Indiana. The funeral service is scheduled to begin promptly at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends to plant a living memorial in honor of Walter, celebrating the enduring impact he made on the lives of those around him.