Loretta Ruth Gilliam

Loretta attended Merced and Chowchilla School. She was the office Manager at Fresno Neon Sign for 15 years before retiring in 1998, she also worked at furniture stores in Chowchilla and Merced. Loretta was the past president of the Ladies Aux VFW Post 9868 and past District Officer of Ladies Aux AFW.

Loretta loved traveling with her husband Corky in their 5th wheel through the United States, Western Canada, Yuma, and Arizona in the winter time. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and her cat.

Loretta is preceded in death by her father Leonard B Stephens and mother Lois L. (Hembree) Stephens and brother Dale Stephens.

She is survived by her loving husband Melvin (Corky) Gilliam of Chowchilla, sister Rosalie Andres of Chowchilla, Sister-in-law Alice Stephens of Merced, son Larry Payton (Tricia) of Idaho, daughter Becky Magill (Dave) of Montana, granddaughter Shelby Payton of Idaho, and her nephew Randy Stephens (Bobbi) of Merced.

Loretta’s sweet, mischievous smile was a joy to everyone and will be missed. Our beloved wife, sister, and mother is now resting in peace. We Love You!

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at Chowchilla District Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity or organization.

Services are held under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel of Chowchilla, California.