My mother Carol and Margie were friends starting in their 20's. That brought my father Ruey and Clem together and they became lifelong friends. In my youth, our families would often visit and go to on picnic or a file trip to places like Cedar Point.  Clem taught my father to fly private planes and they and their wives would fly around the country.

Clem was my Water-Skiing merit badge counselor.  I remember finishing the badge while skiing in the Great Miami River near Island Park.

Clem, Dad, Walt and Don would go to the Oshkosh air show each summer and they invited to join them.  In 2011, there was an opportunity to hear Chuck Yeager speak at 7pm. When I brought it up, Clem was the one willing to go with me. We got seats in row 10 and listened to Chuck speak. Following Chuck's speech, Gary Sinise and the Lt Dan Band performed in the same place. I ask Clem if he wanted to stay and he agreed. Every so often I would ask him if he had had enough and wanted to leave and he said let's stay. We stayed for the entire concert.

Clem was always so kind and helpful. He had a wealth of knowledge that he shared with all. He was always fun to be with, and I treasure our time together.

Our sympathies and prayers go to Cheryl, Diane and Linda and their families.

Larry & Susan Hodapp
Kettering, OH

Clem and I have been friends for 60 years plus.  We shared many adventures together from flying, water skiing, NCR park, road trips to Oshkosh for the Air Show for many years and business ventures.

He was a good man and a good friend; you could always rely on him.  We were lucky to grow old together.


I met Clem through Ruey and was also lucky to call him a friend.  He leaves a hole in many hearts.      
Ann Callin

I just met Clem for few months ago. I sat with him when his daughters needed me to. He slept a lot when I was with him. But when I was there he kept asking who I was. I just laugh and said “It’s me Judy” then he would said oh ok. Few minutes later he would ask again. Then I would say the same thing. He would look at his schedule. Then he would sit back went to sleep. I was so blessed to have met him. Thank you Cheryl and family for trusting me to sit with your dad.

Clem was a dear friend to our family and our neighbor of 50 years. He lived a glorious and full life of adventure that was admired by all. We have fond memories of meeting Clem on the ski slopes at Sugar Creek in the 70’s. And loved hearing about the fun vacations over the years with my dad and Clem to Canada and Alaska always looking for the “big catch.”  Clem, we hope that heaven is ready for your renewed spirit, energy, and enthusiasm.  🙏🏼

To our beloved teacher Mrs Nicol,

I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your father. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time.

Although words can do little to ease the pain of such a loss. I hope you’re able to find comfort in the support of those around you, and in the cherished memories you hold of your father.

Wishing you strength, peace, and healing in the days ahead.

With sympathy,
Mr. Han
FIS Teacher Aide

Clem. We will miss you very much. You and your family have been great friends and neighbors for nearly 50 years. So long good friend. Say “Hi” to Marge. 

Love, Walt & Kathy Carey

Clem loved shore lunches. Another Canadian fishing trip.

Across Canada train ride from Vancouver to Toronto. Three and a half days.

Another Alaska trip. Clem “won” the loft sleeping area.

Cheryl, deepest condolences on your Dad's passing.  He was such a kind soul and true gentleman.  It was an honor to have served with him on the Ski Patrol, and I'll remember him with fondness.  I pray for comfort to you and your family, knowing he's reunited again with your mother and enjoying God's presence.

Mrs. Sherwood and Family

We are so sorry for your loss. Mr. Gilliland was one of our best clients and we appreciate his business. Thank you for the Esther Price Candy he would always bring us.  He will be missed and it was a pleasure to work with you as well.

Audrey Harris
R. E. Jones & Associates

OBITUARY

Joseph Clement Gilliland

18 January, 1929 – 28 March, 2025

Tobias Funeral Home - Beavercreek Chapel

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