Ronald E. Gilliam Sr.

March 27, 1949 - June 16, 2018

Ronald Edward Gilliam, Sr., born March 27, 1949, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 16, 2018, at the age of 69. Ronald was predeceased in death by his parents, Juanita Paisley and Robert Lee Gilliam, and brother, Robert Lewis Gilliam. He is survived by his wife Ernestine Gilliam; sons Jerome Fauntleroy; Ronald Gilliam, Jr.; Reginald Gilliam (Jessica Dean); Robert Gilliam; Jeremiah Gilliam; grandsons, Trent Stimmerman; Omar Fauntleroy; Vash Gilliam; great-grand daughter Allana Gilliam; step-sons John Wright (Valerie); Eric Wright (Rosemarie); Matthew Wright (Mimi); Alphonzo Wright (Stephanie); Marcus Wright (Miranda); Rev. Nathaniel Wright (Stephanie); siblings, Daniel Gilliam (Lori); Elizabeth Mayo-Gilliam; Linda Truesdale (Dr. Carlton Truesdale); Jeanette Robinson; Jean Brundridge (Donald); Donna Fuller (Charles); Kevin Gilliam (Kimberly); special Aunt Georgiann McGrady(Uncle Deke); special cousin/sister Joann Williams and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ron was a local legend who graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1968. He was a gifted athlete who played and dominated in numerous sports including basketball, football, and track and still holds many unbroken records to this day. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Buffalo, then transferred to SUNY Brockport in 1969, and soon after, led his team to the Final IV Division Playoffs. In 1973, he was selected by the Buffalo Braves during the NBA Draft and then, later, played professional basketball in Paris, France. After returning to the U.S., Ron worked at Monroe County Juvenile Center. He then traveled to Detroit, MI and was employed by Ford Motor Co. When Ron returned to his hometown, he worked at the Neighborhood House, which is now known as the Ernie Davis Community Center, followed by employment at McCormick Secure Center. After relocating to Ithaca, NY, he worked at Southside Community Center and the Red Cross Homeless Shelter. Ron was not only a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, husband, and caretaker for all, but he also loved giving back. He gave back by helping to reinvigorate the community when he opened two community centers in Elmira, NY (late 1980’s), and then one in Ithaca, NY (early 1990’s). It was through his work and community service that Ron helped to mold a whole new generation of men, women, and children by offering them a sense of self-worth and responsibility. His favorite words of advice were, “You do good, you get good!” Ron made it obvious to those around him that he was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. His persona and swagger will be remembered and sorely missed by all – even those that once competed against him. His life story will remain a local legacy - much like an awesome book that will be read and discussed for generations to come. Funeral Services will be held on Friday at His Tabernacle Church in Horesheads N.Y. at 12:00 PM The family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 AM till the time of service. Burial will be private .