Lelan Gillum's Obituary
Lelan 'Lee' Gillum, age 85, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2013 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Lee was born in Inola, Oklahoma on May 11, 1928 to his parents, Jesse James Henry Gillum and Grace Green 'Cantrell' Gillum. He grew up in Tahlequah and Wagoner on farms. Lee went into the service at the age of 17 years eventually attaining rank as Corporal Supply Clerk. After service he held a number of jobs including fishing boat in Alabama where he laid his knife on the compass causing the crew to sail off course. He removed the knife before the Captain knew about his involvement. After moving to Tulsa, Lee worked in service stations from Red Fork to Northwest Tulsa, delivery services, a hotel business, and drove a mixer truck for McMichael Concrete. He finally retired in 1993 and became the hands on grandpa known as 'Pa.' Lee was present ball games, practices, scouts, and helped pick up the children and take them to school. Lee enjoyed working his yard, playing several different types of board games, and teaching his grandchildren how to play poker. Lee met Opal Louise Newsom on February 11, 1957 on a blind date. At first, they didn't care much for each other but they weren't seeing anyone else so they decided to begin a relationship. On October 9, 1957, it was Opal's birthday and Lee gave her a choice: he can either purchase a present or they could get married. They decided to get married in Miami, Oklahoma. Lee is survived by his two children, Terri Boyd of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Karen Robinson of Lakeland, Florida. Lee is also survived by his grandchildren and one sibling, Mildred White.
What’s your fondest memory of Lelan?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lelan?
Share a story where Lelan's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lelan you’ll never forget.
How did Lelan make you smile?