James "Jim" Edward Gillard

James "Jim" Edward Gillard, 86, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away Saturday, April 23, 2022. James was born February 21,1936 in Zanesville, son of the late Raymond Eugene and Lela Marie (Holbert) Gillard. In addition to his parents, James is also preceded in death by siblings, Harvey "Mike" Gillard, Janetta Gillard and Barbara Gillard; as well as his beloved daughter, Lesha Gillard.
James leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved children, Raynard (Kimberly) Gillard and Ginita (Derek) Kirksey; grandchildren, Jasmine Lynum, Daria Kirksey, Derek "Bubbie" Kirksey and Deondre Kirksey; great-grandchildren, Shabieuna, Shaboheam, Jr., and Jahcari; brother, Raymond Fred (Josephine) Gillard; several nieces and nephews; beloved bonus children, Kwame and Zaire; and a host of other family members and friends.
Jim was a United States Veteran, having served in the army. He went on to dedicate 34 years of employment to Burnham Foundry where he worked as an iron pourer, furnace operator and a foreman, before taking his retirement. Jim was a member of the Foundry Union where he dedicated some time as the vice president. 
James was a dedicated fan of both The Ohio State University sports as well as the Cleveland Browns. He was a talented cook who loved making meals for others to enjoy. Jim enjoyed keeping up with ever-changing technology. He was a scientifically minded man who had interest in many topics. Any subject you would bring up in discussion with Jim, he would have some knowledge to impart. He was a no-nonsense kind of man, who said what he meant, and meant what he said.
When his children were young, James was involved in all of their activities, from attending sporting events to even coaching their teams. When Ginita was completing the curriculum for her barber's license, Jim acted as her model, allowing her to practice and ultimately pass her state testing. Jim loved to travel, taking cruises, visiting New Jersey and even spent some time living in one of his favorite destinations, Alabama. He was a loving father, grandfather and brother. He will be dearly missed. 
You may call on the family Friday, April 29, 2022 from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m., with funeral service to follow at 12 p.m., at Burrell Funeral Services. Bishop James Gaiters officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. BURRELL FUNERAL SERVICES is serving the family. 
 

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