Charlie Gilliard

Obituary for Mr. Charlie C. Gilliard Charlie C. Gilliard, affectionately known to many as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend, was born on December 11, 1943, to the late Willie “Buster” Gilliard and Lucille “Pigeon” Gilliard Limehouse. He was lovingly raised by his grandmother Lula Gordon, on her farm in Hemingway, South Carolina. Here is where he learned the values of faith, hard work, and perseverance that would guide him throughout his life. Charlie graduated from Chavis High School and began working at Dubois Dye and Factory. Shortly thereafter, he relocated to New Haven, Connecticut in search of broadened job opportunities and to better provide for his family. He worked at Pratt and Whitney for a few years before beginning a long and dedicated career at Stop & Shop Warehouse, where he was faithfully employed for 30 years until his retirement. Charlie was known for his strong work ethic, team spirit, and leadership. He took pride not only in his work but also in mentoring younger colleagues, leaving a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him. In 1965, Charlie married the love of his life, Mary Ann McKnight. Their union was a testament to commitment, love, and partnership. Together, they built a legacy rooted in faith and family. He took his family to Disney World every year for more than 10 consecutive years. In retirement, Charlie and Mary traveled the world taking cruises to The Bahamas, St. Thomas and Niagara Falls. They were also casino lovers, with Mohegan Sun being a favorite destination. Charlie was an active and faithful member of Immanuel Baptist Church for over 50 years, where he joyfully sang in the choir and lead One Day At A Time on myriad occasions. His warm smile, kind heart, and friendly nature endeared him to his beloved church community. In his leisure time, he enjoyed attending basketball and football games, always cheering with enthusiasm from the sidelines. Charlie lived a full life. He leaves to cherish his precious memories a devoted wife, Mary Ann Gilliard; his children, Charles Gilliard (Sharon) and Jennifer Gilliard; his beloved grandchildren, Jordan, Layla, Koran, Talicia, Lauren, and Justin; his daughter-in-law, Valerie Murphy of Pamplico, South Carolina; his siblings, Lula J. Taylor of Laurelton, New York and Willie Gilliard of Melbourne, Florida; sisters-in-law, Rosa McKnight of Atlanta, Georgia, Janie Melvin of Queens, New York, Lela McKnight of Greenville, South Carolina; brother-in-law, Rev. Tommy McKnight (Sylvia) of Columbia, South Carolina; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. He was predeceased in death by his parents; his beloved son, Timothy Murphy; and his siblings, James Belin Gilliard and Barbara Gilliard-Hillman. Though Charlie is no longer with us, his life has been marked by faith, perseverance, humility, and love. His legacy echoes far beyond his years on Earth and has touched the lives of all those who have had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Charlie Gilliard

December 11, 1943 - February 13, 2026