Joe Gillham Obituary

Joe Hartley Gillham, 81, of Lafayette, died on September 03, 2024, at his home in Lafayette, IN. He was born on February 10 to Joseph and Emma (Schulze) Gillham. Joe was born in Evansville, Indiana, and proudly served in the United States Air Force. He was an A1 C in the 4432 Air Transportation Squadron Lt (TAC). Once he completed his enlistment with the Air Force, he moved to Lafayette, Indiana. Joe married Mary Elizabeth (Neal) Richardson in 1985 in Lafayette, Indiana. Joe is survived by his wife, Mary Gillham, sister Mary Hess, and his three children, Michael Gillham (Lisa), Gary Gillham (LaDona), Melinda Hind (Michael), and Mary's four children, Terry Lynn Pyatt (Dean), Tony Richardson (Frenchie), Billy Richardson (Natalie), Steven Richardson (Susan). They also raised their granddaughter, Elizabeth Tudder (Tony). They have 18 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, and several nieces and nephews. Joe is preceded in death by his parents, sister Viola Schnell, brother Donnie Gillham, brothers-in-law Jim Hess, Larry Schnell, Larry Johnson, Larry Neal, Eddie Neal, and Walter Neal, and granddaughter Katharin Kohl-Richardson. Joe worked as a glazier for most of his life. He and Mary started Gillham's Glass in 1985. They retired in 2003 and spent the summers at their lake house in Monticello while spending the winter months in Florida, where they met several long-lasting friends. Joe was a member of the Forty and Eight Chateau and the American Legion Post 492. He was an avid Purdue fan and loved fishing, watching NASCAR racing, boating, gambling at casinos, and spending time with family. In his spare time, Joe enjoyed making wine and restoring a 1964 international truck that he was able to complete before his death. Joe touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Services will be held at Tippecanoe Funeral Chapel, 1718 W 350 N, West Lafayette, IN 47906, on Friday, September 6, 2024. The viewing will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Franciscan Health Lafayette East Cancer Center.