Anthony “Tony” Gilliam
Anthony Gilliam, age 71, of St. Louis MO , passed away peacefully on 05/12/2026 from Dementia. Born on 07/06/1954 in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
Tony, a man whose quick wit, Arkansas roots, and selfless heart defined a life well-lived, has passed away. Born and raised in Arkansas, Tony eventually moved to St. Louis, where in 1987 he met the love of his life, Pam. In a move that showcased his character, he didn’t just join Pam’s life; he immediately stepped in as a father to her two sons, Brennen and David. Tony and Pam were married in 1988 and completed their family with the birth of their son, Ryan, in 1991.
Tony was a natural entertainer who never lost his dry, “country” sense of humor. He was famous for his “Tony-isms”—if you asked him a question with an obvious “yes” answer, you were likely to be met with a grin and a “Does a fat puppy poot?” He had a rare talent for putting people at ease with a quick story, using laughter as a way to show kindness and make everyone feel like they belonged.
He was never happier than when he was manning the grill for family and friends. For Tony, a backyard barbecue wasn’t just about the food; it was about the fellowship. Amidst the smoke of the grill and the laughter of a crowded dinner table, Tony was in his element—a devoted family man whose selflessness brightened the lives of those closest to him.
Tony’s legacy of laughter and love continues through his wife, Pam; his sons, Ryan, David, and Brennen; and his cherished grandchildren, Tyler, Jacob, Emily, Lydia, Lux, and Mark. He is also survived by his sisters, Kim, Cindy, Missy, and Linda, and will be deeply missed by his dear friends, Ray and Pam Wilson, and Rick and Tracy Allman, as well as his loyal dog, Maddie.
Anthony is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Gilliam and Carolyn Gilliam (Buchanan).
The family will hold a private celebration of Tony’s life, surely filled with the kind of stories he loved to tell.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Tony’s name to the American Heart Association or the Dementia Society of America.
Tony was the gentlest, kindest soul to ever have walked this earth, he was by far a gentleman & enriched everyone’s life who had the good fortune of knowing him. He has pasted this legacy on to his sons & will be missed deeply by them & all who knew him.
When I think of Tony I see him grinning. His soft manner set you at ease and made you glad you were in his presence. I never once remember him getting angry and certainly never at me. His witticisms were legendary and delivered with perfect timing. He was a pleasure to have around and I am glad I was fortunate enough to have him in my life.
I remember the day I met Tony. It was at grandma Miller’s funeral in Mattoon, Ill. It was a bitterly cold and blustery day; Tony was well received by all. The day I met him the Moon occulted the Pleiades (which is a rather rare event) so it seemed like an omen of sorts (at least to this amateur astronomer).
It is so unfair that someone so full of life was taken prematurely from all who loved him by dementia. I am already missing my friend.
Peace be with you Tony and Pam. Love Mary McReynolds.
Peace be with you Tony and Pam. Love, Mary McReynolds.
I only met Ryan’s Dad a few times, but the few I did were always filled with warmth, laughter, and family. Knowing his son and daughter-in-law, Tony loved them and their amazing family so much. It was an honor to spend time with him when possible. Thinking of the Gilliams and Allens, keeping you all close to our hearts.