BRUCE RANDALL GILLIAM SR.

Bruce Randall Gilliam Sr., 77, of Big Stone Gap, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, at Holston Valley Medical Center. 

Born on March 9, 1948, in Keokee, he was the son of Ottis and Ollie Gilliam. Bruce graduated from Powell Valley High School and went on to retire from Carter Machinery after 35 years of dedicated service as a welder and mechanic. 

Bruce found joy in life’s simple pleasures — hunting, fishing, birdwatching, fixing just about anything (especially cars), and watching classic westerns. Above all else, his greatest happiness was found in the love he shared with his wife and family. 

He was preceded in death by his children, Linda Franklin and Jeffrey Gilliam. 

Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Judy Gilliam; his son, Bruce Randall Gilliam (Kim); his grandchildren, Brennan Lawson, Rachel Person (Will), Dustin Franklin, and Nicholas Gilliam; and his great-grandchild, Owen Franklin. He is also survived by his siblings: Carol Anderson (Ron), Jan Williams (Roger), John Gilliam, and Tracy Gilliam (Rhonda). 

Bruce will be remembered for his playfulness, perfectionism, conviction, strength, and unwavering support for those he loved. 

A celebration of life was held at Holding Funeral Home, located at 17 E. 3rd St. N., on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service followed in the funeral home’s chapel, officiated by Charles Barrier, with special music provided by Shiela Gabbert. 

A memorial tribute video will be available through Holding Funeral Home. 

An online guest registry will also be available for the family atwww.holdingfuneralhome.com

Holding Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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