George H. Gillam Jr., 86, a lifelong resident of Belford, passed away Feb. 20, 2023. George was born Feb. 15, 1937, in Red Bank, a son of the late Irene and George H. Gillam Sr. George was raised in Belford then joined the Army when he became of age. He trained with helicopters at Fort Rucker in Alabama. While he was stationed there, he met his future wife Dora. His Army career moved them around, but when he was discharged, he brought his young family back to Belford and settled there in 1965.
George was an electrical engineer for Stavola Enterprises for over 51 years. He finally retired last year at the age of 85. His career with the Army taught him many skills that he used throughout his life. He was mechanically inclined and worked on trucks, machinery and boats. You may have found him fishing down at the docks when he had a free moment.
George was predeceased by his wife Dora in 2019, just shy of their 62nd wedding anniversary. He was also predeceased by their daughter Dorene Cafiero, his brother Preston Gillam and his sister Irene Gillam.
George leaves behind his two sons, George H. Gillam III and his wife Lena of Belford; and Louis and Tracey Gillam of Alabama; along with six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Friends and relatives paid their respects Feb. 24 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals.
The article originally appeared in the March 9 – 15, 2023 print edition of The Two River Times.
