Frankie Gilliam

With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of Frankie Lynn Gilliam, 64, of Paragould. Born on February 17, 1960, in Newport, she peacefully departed from this world on November 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Frankie lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service to others. A graduate of Grubbs High School in 1978, she embarked on a journey marked by milestones of love and accomplishment. On February 10, 1979, she married the love of her life, Jerry Gilliam, and together they embraced a life full of joy and shared adventures. Frankie's dedication to education led her to pursue studies in Economic Development, bringing her to Arkansas State University, where she worked for over two decades.

Throughout her life, Frankie poured her energy into her professional endeavors, contributing significantly to the development of her community. Her passion for service shone brightly during her eleven years at the Greene County Chamber of Commerce and twenty-three years at the A-State Delta Center for Economic Development, where she made lasting impacts and fostered growth within the region. During her time with the chamber, Frankie was an integral part of creating the Loose Caboose Festival which returns in May for its 25th year.

Frankie's love for travel and creating cherished memories with her family were evident in her eagerness to explore the world and share those experiences with her beloved husband and the children in her family. She thoroughly enjoyed taking her kids on trips to New York. Her penchant for storytelling, particularly the magical 'Matilda' tales, always kept the kids on the edge of their seats. As each generation grew up, the stories became more magical. Frankie loved to decorate for every holiday, and her enthusiasm always rubbed off on those around her.

An individual of faith and a devoted member of the Pine Knot Church of Christ, Frankie's spiritual guidance was a guiding light to many. Her selfless nature, warm and servant heart, and unwavering dedication to her community exemplify a life lived with purpose and meaning. She lived her life as if she was a sermon you could see.

The memory of Frankie Lynn Gilliam will forever linger in the hearts of her family, her dear husband, Jerry Gilliam; her loving children, Harper (Franklin) Summers and Lucas (Jazzmon) Martin; her mother, Evelyn Tidmore; her siblings, Sue Renee (Ronald) Kesterson, Karen (Steve) Wagster, and Ronald (Zana) Tidmore; as well as an abundance of nephews, nieces, and cousins. Frankie was preceded in death by her father, Willie Dean "WD" Tidmore, and sister, Peggy Jean Tidmore.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 5-7 PM at Heath Funeral Home. The funeral services to honor and celebrate Frankie's life will be held at Heath Funeral Home on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 10 AM with David Flannery officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Knot Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Sam Wagster, Aaron Kesterson, Daxton Gray, Sean Davis, Mark Benish, and Jeremy White.

As we celebrate Frankie's life, let us reflect on the legacy of a remarkable woman whose impact will forever be felt in the lives of those she touched. May her spirit rest in eternal peace.