Ralph Leslie Gilliland

Ralph Leslie Gilliland, Beloved Patriarch, and Devoted Family Man With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Ralph Leslie Gilliland, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather. Ralph passed away peacefully on March 27th, 2024, at the age of ninety-six, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 8th, 1927, in East Lake, Alabama, Ralph was the son of James Nolie Louis Gilliland and Lennie Lee Drummond. He grew up in a close-knit family alongside his siblings: Ester Mae Thompson, Opal Pruett, Ray Gilliland, N.L Gilliland, Lester Gilliland, Charles Gilliland, and Betty Jean Thomas, who have all preceded him in death, Ralph attended Dora High School in Walker County, Alabama, and later embarked on a successful career as a Tool and Die maker for Etowah Manufacturing Company in Gadsden, Alabama. His meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to his work earned him the respect of his colleagues and clients alike. Throughout his life, Ralph's greatest joys were found in the simple pleasures of fishing, camping, pitching horseshoes, mowing the lawn, and spending countless hours with his beloved family and friends. His infectious smile and hearty laughter brought warmth and joy to all who knew him. Ralph leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his cherished wife of fifty-three years, Vashtie Jacobs Gilliland; his sons, Terry Gilliland (Sheila) and Randal Gilliland (Deidra); his daughters, Janet Gilbreath (Arlington) and Patricia Ann Williams. Ralph has seven grandchildren: Pam Doerzapf, wife of Carl; Tanya Gilliland Weinbel; Melissa Gilliland Shell, wife of Jason; Haley Gilliland Cox, wife of Connor; Emily Gilliland; Jeremy Williams and wife Jennifer; Abby Williams Jones, wife of Brandon. Ralph has ten great-grandchildren: Hunter Weinbel, Austin Doerzapf, and wife Samantha, Emma Claire Shell, Brady Shell, Elizabeth Jones, Payton Claire Jones, Lillian Williams, Madelaine Hope Cox, Copeland Matthew Cox, and Jessica Lightcap and husband Steve. Ralph has five great-great-grandchildren: Keelie Weinbel, Henry Weinbel, Jaxton Doerzapf, Edwyn Lightcap, and Elleanor Lightcap. Ralph's memory will be forever etched in the hearts of his loved ones. He will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul, a pillar of strength, and a beacon of love. A visitation will be held on April 4th, 2024, at Coosa Valley Baptist Church from 12-2 pm, followed by a service to celebrate Ralph's life. He will be laid to rest at Rainbow Memorial Gardens after the service. Flowers will be received at Coosa Valley Baptist Church in Rainbow City, Alabama. The family requests donations to The Gadsden Sportsman's Club Scholarships, C/O payable to Coosa Valley Baptist Church. These funds will support college students in the area, a testament to Ralph's unwavering commitment to education and community. Ralph Leslie Gilliland, you will be deeply missed, but your spirit will continue to inspire us all. May you find eternal peace and joy in the arms of the Lord. A Special thanks to the hospice team: Brandon, Brittany, Jennifer and Elizabeth.

Ralph Leslie Gilliland

December 8, 1927 - March 27, 2024