Robert Gerald Gilliland

Robert Gilliland, 81, of Cleveland, TN went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 20, 2020. He was born on October 27, 1938 to the late Clee and Wilma Coleman Gilliland. He loved being an active member of Michigan Avenue Baptist Church and lived a life dedicated to the Lord.
He was preceded in death by his parents Clee and Wilma Coleman Gilliland.
Robert is survived by his loving wife Joan Satterfield Gilliland. They were married for 59 years. He is also survived by his daughters Lolly Gilliand Hendrix (Joe), Amy Gilliland Newman (Tommy), Mendy Gilliland (Kevin), son Charley Gilliland (Kari), his 6 grandchildren Chris Hendrix, Lauren Hendrix Simpson, Knox Hagler, Charlsey Newman, Jackson Gilliland, and Harrison Gilliland, and 6 great-grandchildren. Also, his three siblings John Gilliland, Jane Gilliland Giles, and Sally Gilliland Cole as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Robert graduated from Bradley Central High School, class of 1960, and served in the U.S. Army before returning home to work in the family business of Gilliland Orchards. Years later, Robert graduated from Cleveland State Community College with an electrical contractor’s licensure as well as a pilot’s license. He then founded and owned Gilliland Electric. After retiring, Robert was a co-owner of the Chatta Valley Golf Course. He had many hobbies which included hunting, fishing, golfing, and traveling to all 50 U.S. States, but what he loved most of all was entertaining all the little children he came into contact with, especially his own grandchildren and great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends in a drive by visitation at the Gilliland residence on 320 SE Gilliland Road, Cleveland, TN 37311, just off Bates Pike on Thursday, June 25th, from 5 – 8 PM. Burial will take place at the Chattanooga National Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, you may donate to Michigan Avenue Baptist Church or to a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life service for Robert will be announced at a later date.