Fred L Gilliam

Fred L. Gilliam, age 86, of Buffalo, Texas passed away on April 28, 2025, in Tyler, Texas. Born on March 28, 1939, in San Juan, Texas, to Charles Preston and Emma Dorene (Smith) Gillam, Fred lived a life rich in community, family, and friendship.

Fred was a well-known and respected member of the Buffalo community, dedicating much of his life to working as a heavy equipment operator. His passion for his work was rivaled only by his love for his family and his unwavering support for local community and school events, especially those that showcased his beloved children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was proud of his roots and the connections he made along the way.

His warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever be held close to our hearts.

Fred had a passion for all things involving competition, whether it was playing marbles, farkle, or poker with his family and friends. There was always a good time to be had... and a little bit of cheating! If Fred was not at Gilliams Grocery lining people out, he could be found "supervising" at the farm in Oakwood, or attending a financial seminar in Shreveport.

Everybody knew that Papaw was quick to love them, even though he was more likely to humble us or tell us to go play in the street.

Fred was preceded in death by both of his parents; wife, Betty Gilliam; daughter, Lauri Gale Gilliam Davis; and son-in-law, Mitchell Davis.

Surviving family members include son, Jerry Gilliam (Sherri) of Buffalo; daughter, Bonnie Massengale (Chuck) of Buffalo; brother, Bob Gilliam (Jacque) of Buffalo; sister, Charlene Ezell of Fairfield; brother, Willie Gilliam (Kathy) of Buffalo; grandchildren, Natalie Hyndman (Justin) of Leona, Shawna Coots (Jasen) of College Station, Julie Hinojosa (Tachi) of Fredricksburg, Karen Davis of Round Rock, Nikki Massengale of Tyler, Brooke Gilliam of Buffalo, Megan Massengale of Tyler, Jocelyn Evans (Todd) of Celina, Todd Davis (Kaitlyn) of Buffalo, and Valarie Marroquin of Huntsville; sixteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson, as well as a host of extended family and special friends.

To honor Fred's life and legacy, a  funeral service will held Friday, May 2, 2025, at 10 A.M., at Calvary Christian Center near Oakwood, Texas.  Pastor Jack Smith will officiate the service.  A time of visitation and fellowship will take place Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 5 P.M. to 8 P.M., also at the church.

All who knew Fred are invited to join as stories are shared--reminiscing, and celebrating a life well lived. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched. 

Pallbearers: Todd Davis, Justin Hyndman, Jasen Coots, Tachi "T" Hinojosa, Todd Evans, Logan Jones, Caden Foster, Ethan Dujay

Honorary Pallbearers: Steve Ezell, Darrell Ezell, David Gilliam, Paul Dale Ferguson, Kevin Pate, DW Mullins, Alvin Lummus, Thurman Jacobo, Smitty Smith, Joe Hughes, Jeff Beshears, Ken Turner

Final arrangements for Fred L. Gilliam are under the direction of Walters' Buffalo Funeral Home, Buffalo, Texas.