1948 – 2015

AUGUSTA — Clayton D. Gilliam, 66, a resident of Lisbon Street, passed away Wednesday, June 3, at the Togus VA Regional Medical Center, following a long struggle with diabetes.

He was born in Portland on July 21, 1948, the son of Theodore and Charlotte (Loring) Gilliam.

Clayton served 11 years in the United States Army, serving two tours of duty during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1971, where he developed diabetes as a result of Agent Orange exposure.

Following his service, he developed his expertise, thanks to his father-in-law, Albert Intrieri, who was beneficial to Clayton as a renowned shoe stitcher at Eastland Shoe and Sebago Moc. He later was employed six years with City of Portland Public Works. He moved to California for 13 years, then came back to Maine with his wife, Anita, where he struggled with diabetes, becoming a double amputee.

His greatest joy in life were his wife and children. He loved music and was the lead singer in several bands. He was also a bird lover and had several tattoos which displayed his favorite birds. He also loved his country and riding his Harley.

Survivors include his wife, Anita; his children, Melissa Cook of Maine, Shara Dechellis of Massachusetts, and Corie Gilliam of California; two grandchildren, Kristopher Jones and Kayla Gilliam; two brothers, Kenneth Gilliam and John Dalphonse; and two sisters, Alicia and Eleanor Gilliam.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Helen (Bitsy) Frost.

Online condolences and sharing of memories may be expressed at www.lynchbrothers.com