Phillip Leslie Gilliam

Phillip Leslie Gilliam, 85, of Sanford, NC, passed away peacefully on March 19 surrounded by his loving family and devoted cat, Daisy. Born March 21, 1940 to the late Myers and LaRue Gilliam of Apex, Phillip built a life defined by hard work, dedication, and a deep love for those closest to him. He graduated from Apex High School (Class of 1958) and Nashville Auto-Diesel College in Nashville, TN (Class of 1960).

A lifelong business man with a passion for music and community, Phillip owned Buchanan's Music in Sanford for 30 years, and was co-owner of Furniture Mart for 30 years before that. He served for 20 years as a Volunteer Fire Fighter with West Sanford and Northview Fire Departments , received his pilot's license and was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and volunteered with the EMS. Through his work, Phillip touched the lives of countless families in Sanford - neighbors, music students, and musicians - always offering a helping hand and reinforcing his strong belief in the power of hard work and community.

Phillip is survived by his daughters Sandra Stone (Leroy) of Oak Island, Susan Raaf (Paul) of Sanford; grandchildren Jordan Rogers (Hillary) of Sanford, Rickey Stone (Ashley) of Goldston, Johnny Stone (Sharon) also of Goldston, Blake Rogers of Cary, and Samantha Stone of Oak Island; great-grandchildren Brynleigh, Brayden, and Bristol Stone, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his sister, Peggy Dealey (Bud) of Wilmington and his dear long-term partner, Barbara Anderson of Apex, with whom he created countless happy memories.

In addition to his parents, Phillip was preceded in death by his son, Randy Gilliam of Sanford, and brother, Baxter Gilliam of Apex. He was blessed with a super-sized family which includes many beloved nieces and nephews, and his aunt, Mary Hudson Oliver of Kinston.

Phillip will be remembered for his generous spirit, his unwavering work ethic, and the quiet strength he carried throughout his life. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the lessons he taught, and the many lives he touched.

A visitation will be held at Apex Funeral Home, 550 W Williams St, Apex, NC 27502, US, on March 22, 2026, from 1:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at Apex Funeral Home at 3:00 pm.

A committal service will take place at Salem Baptist Church, 1821 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27523, US, on March 22, 2026, from 4:00 pm with a reception to follow.