He was born in Cleveland, the beloved son of Angela M. Gilleland (nee Di Bello) and the late Harry G. Gilleland. He is the loving brother of Sherri (Jim) Fox and David (Jennifer) Gilleland; dear uncle of Colleen Fox, Sean (Lexi) Fox, Kevin Fox (deceased), Matthew Gilleland, Jessica Hamilton and Jacob Hamilton and great-uncle of Brady and Everett Fox; cherished nephew of Gloria Piscura and Pat Di Bello.
Joe was an avid sports fan who managed to support both the Steelers and the Browns. He was looking forward to celebrating this year's Super Bowl. His hobby was learning everything he could about WWII making him a history buff.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2020 at 2PM at Craciun Funeral Home, 14925 East Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights. He will be laid to rest at Eastlawn Memorial Gardens at a later date.