Gary Gilliland

Gary Gilliland of Galveston, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024 at his residence after a long battle with cancer. Gary was born on January 16, 1946 in Raymondville, Texas, to the late Alden and Dolores Gilliland. 

Gary began his banking career as a collector in 1967 for Pacific Finance, and ended his career after 50 years, as Executive VP, Senior Lending Officer at HomeTown Bank Seawall.  Gary loved Galveston and the many friends he made over the years.  He was passionate about helping his clients and many of those clients became lifelong friends. As an avid golfer, Gary enjoyed many competitive rounds with friends at the Galveston Country Club. 

He and his brother-in-law, John, held bragging rights to Club Championship in 2018.  He had many fond memories of his time spent on the links and in the 19th Hole.  The Country Club was his home away from home. 

Gary was a true “salt water soul”. He began as a Sea Scout in his teenager years, and he learned to fish with his dad at Port Mansfield, Texas.  Over the years he enjoyed sailing with Jinny, his First Mate.  He loved fishing from a boat or surf, or just sitting at the beach listening to the waves and reading a good book. He and Jinny gave back to their love of the beach by working the Turtle Patrol along the Gulf of Mexico for eleven years. 

Gary was an amazing husband, father, brother and friend.  He touched many lives, and he will be missed by all who knew, loved and respected him. 

Gary is survived by the love of his life, Jinny O’Donohue Gilliland, his son, Alden Gilliland (Rose) of Mukilteo, Washington, granddaughter, Megan, also of Mukilteo, daughter, Brandi of California.  Gary is also survived by three sisters, Laura Kardow (John) of Spicewood, TX, Jan Reves (Randall) of Denver, Co., and Debby Finch of Bayview, TX., as well as numerous nieces, nephews, additional family members and special friends. 

A private service will be held at a future date.  Friends may call from 5:00 to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at J. Levy & Termini, 2128 Broadway, Galveston, TX. 

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Galveston Island Humane Society, The Rosenberg Library or a charity of your choice.

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