Marvin Lavern Gillam

Marvin Lavern Gillam, the son of Floyd and Lonnie (Brakefield) Gillam, was born April 5, 1936, in Washington County, Missouri. He passed away January 22, 2026, in Cuba, Missouri, at the age of eighty-nine years. Marvin grew up in Courtois and in 1953 graduated from Cherryville High School as class president. On November 22, 1956, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Emilie Todd, and together shared sixty-nine years of marriage before her passing on October 3, 2025. Marvin and Emilie were blessed with two sons: Dave and Don. His family was most important to him, and he treasured making memories with them. When his sons were younger, they enjoyed drive-in movies together. Marvin was always looking for a way to entertain his grandchildren and took them frequently to the creek. His nieces and nephews looked forward to summers spent with Marvin and Emilie on the family farm. Marvin worked for Hummel Construction in St. Louis for many years. After his injury, he enjoyed farming and tinkering around the house. He was always creating things, and welding leather straps onto items, to make life easier on himself. Marvin overcame his struggles, never complained, and was very self-sufficient. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing and going hunting with his friends. He loved to tend to his big gardens alongside his wife. Marvin also liked listening to George Jones and reading western novels. Marvin is survived by his sons: Dave Gillam and wife Sue of Viburnum, MO and Don Gillam and companion Janet Ringering-Shewmake of Wood River, IL; grandchildren: Jessica Metcalf and husband Nic of Cuba, MO, Ashley McMillian and husband Larry of Rolla, MO, and Drew Gillam of St. Louis, MO; great-grandchildren: Harrison McMillian, Noah McMillian, Blake Metcalf, and Brooks McMillian; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his loving wife: Emilie Gillam; parents: Floyd and Lonnie Gillam; brothers: Elmer, Paul, and Herbert; and sisters: Ardell, Oneta, and Rosalie. Marvin will be remembered for his excellent story-telling ability. He was always very welcoming, fun loving, and loved by everyone. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Memorial Services were held Saturday, February 21, 2026, in the Wilson Mortuary Viburnum Chapel with Pastor Chris Hendrix officiating. Granddaughter Jessica Metcalf shared the eulogy. The family was served by Wilson Mortuary, Viburnum, Missouri. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Marvin Lavern Gillam

April 5, 1936 - January 22, 2026