Big Stone Gap, Va.- Robert Woodson Gilliam, Jr. “Bud”, 96, passed away January 6, 2026 at The Laurels in Norton Va. Born in Jumping Branch, WV, Bud lived most of his life in Big Stone Gap. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, having served his country in Europe. He was the shipping supervisor for Pet Dairy in Big Stone Gap for 33 ½ years. Bud was a kind, generous man and never met a stranger. He was devoted to his family and his love was spread to all. Bud could be seen out walking and supporting local high school sports. He was a member of First Christian Church, Appalachia, VA.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Marie (Pennington) Gilliam; parents, R.W. and Sallie Gilliam and brothers Harold Gilliam, Fred Gilliam, and Garnett Gilliam.
Bud is survived by his sons, Roger Gilliam (Robin) of Coeburn, VA and Brian Gilliam of Concord, NC; grandchildren, Jennifer Kilgore (Anthony), Charlie Gilliam (Kim), and Alex Reynolds (Wesley) ; great grandson, Beckham Reynolds; brother, Carl Gilliam; several nieces and nephews and a host of friends.
The family will receive friends on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA from 12:30-2:30pm. The funeral service will begin at 2:30pm with Pastor Garrett Lee ministering.
Military graveside rites, by the Virginia Army National Guard Honors Team and local VFW and DAV posts, will follow at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens. Family members and friends will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the friends and family of Bud Gilliam. Bud welcomed and served many families while working at Gilliam Funeral Home.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com.