Shirley Marie Gillam

Shirley Marie Gillam, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on March 28, 1949, in Palmer, Missouri, she was a shining light in the lives of so many who were fortunate enough to know her.

Shirley had a special way of bringing joy to every moment. Shirley had a love for music, particularly finding peace and inspiration in the timeless melodies of Patsy Cline. Family meant everything to Shirley. She shared a deep bond with her husband, Gary Gillam, who was her steadfast companion throughout their life together. Their journey of marriage began on July 8, 1995 and was enriched by the love they shared and the happy memories they created. As the proud mother of two sons, David McClain and Christopher McClain, she instilled values of honesty and integrity. Shirley’s love extended to her seven grandchildren—Brandon Spangler, Chelsey Sadler, Brent McClain, Kleigh Lewis, Jordan McClain, Logan McClain, and Makenna McClain—as well as five great-grandchildren: Jase Sadler, Gracelynn Sadler, Benjamin McClain, Marty Lewis, and Owen McClain. Each child's laughter and milestones brought her immense joy, and she proudly doted on each one, creating lasting bonds filled with love and shared experiences. Shirley also leaves behind her two siblings, Caroline Smith (husband, Mike) and Betty Parker (husband, Don), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and special family members who were all touched by her kindness.

A woman of many talents, Shirley was an extraordinary cooking. One of her signature dishes being—chicken and dumplings accompanied by dressing—was a family favorite. She also had a reputation for creating the most delicious Christmas fudge. Shirley also enjoyed seafood and wild game. Her honesty and authenticity shone brightly in every aspect of her life. Shirley's career mostly extended to banking at the age of 18 years old at Lindell Trust Company in St. Louis. There she worked as a bookkeeper until her sons were born. After they were grown, Shirley  attended Sanford Brown College at the age of 45. She graduated with top honors. She then went to work for Heartland Bank at their branch in Park Hills until they sold to New Era Bank. Shirley continued with New Era Bank for many years as a banking service representative until her retirement. 

Throughout her life, Shirley found pleasure in reading and was an avid consumer of murder mysteries on the Lifetime channel. Her interests and hobbies painted a rich tapestry of a life well-lived, filled with depth, creativity, and love.

As we remember Shirley, we celebrate the memories made during family camping trips at Mark Twain Lake—a time when the warmth of the sun and the laughter shared around a campfire brought her so much joy. Her legacy, touching the hearts of everyone she  encountered, will continue to resonate within the lives she affected deeply. 

Friends and family will gather to honor her life at DeClue Funeral Home for visitation on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on January 15, from 9:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Pastor Dave Skaggs will officiate. Interment will be held at Antioch Cemetery, Belgrade, Missouri. Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home.