Richard Curtis Gilliam

Richard Curtis Gilliam, went home to be with the Lord on May 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

A life-long coal miner, Richard, the youngest of seven children, was born on March 6, 1945, at Pine Mountain Hospital to the late Elijah, Sr. and Rachel Smith Gilliam, and was raised in Big Laurel, Kentucky. Known as Curt by his family and friends, he enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, and driving around through the mountains.

Richard's Christian faith was rooted deeply in his love for the Lord, as he spoke often to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren about God and shared scripture from the Bible. 

Other than his parents, Richard was preceded in death by one sister, five older brothers, and his grandson, Nick Caudill.

Richard is survived by his loving, devoted wife of sixty years, Alice Hurt Gilliam, daughters, Donna (Clayton) Cress, Vicky (Paul) Huskey and son, Richard Jr. (Heidi) Gilliam, eight grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, a host of other family, friends, and loved ones to honor and cherish his memory.

Following the wishes of his family, a Celebration of Life will be held privately.

Cumberland Valley Funeral Home is Honored to Serve the Gilliam Family.

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