Obituary of Carol Hope Gilliam

Carol Hope Gilliam passed away September 6, 2013 peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones, her books and her music. Hope was born to Naomi and Everett Walje of Vanceburg Ky. on August 9,1943. She was preceded in death by Darrell, her husband and best friend of 45 years. She was also preceded in death by her sister Rebecca Wilson and her brother Jim Walje both of Vanceburg. Surviving are her beloved son Ben, his wife Tonya who was a daughter to Hope and the light of her life, and her granddaughter Brooklyn Grace. Also surviving are 3 sisters, Jean (Stuart) of San Diego California, Ann (JR) of Lexington, and Faith (Chuck) of Vanceburg; and one brother Rick Walje also of Vanceburg. Hope found a church home that enriched her life and sheltered her soul as a member of Bridgeport Christian Church. An avid reader, Hope loved her Book Club and also enjoyed the camaraderie of her retired teachers group. She received her BA degree in education from Berea College and her Master's Degree from EKU. Hope enhanced the life of many children over her 30 year career. Words cannot describe the depth of appreciation felt for her friends and neighbors for their support, assistance and unwavering love over the course of her illness. Heart filled gratitude is extended to Hope's caregivers - Donna Blankenship, Shontel Harris and Raydeana Stockton who became and will remain a part of our family. Visitation will be Monday Sept. 9th from 5pm until 8pm at Bridgeport Church. The funeral service will be at 11am Tuesday with pastor Keith McAliley officiating. There will be visitation at 10am prior to the service. Graveside services and interment will be held in the Winchester Cemetery at 2pm. Pallbearers will be Raydeana Stockton, Shontel Harris, Donna Blankenship, Terry Tyree, Richard Day and David Walje. Honorary Pallbearers will be Bill Coleman, Michael Scott and Luke Scott. Flowers are welcomed or donations may be made to the Bridgeport Christian Church Missions.