Paul Howard Gilliam

Paul Gilliam, a deeply respected attorney, proud veteran, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully surrounded by love. Paul’s journey began on September 25, 1953, in Freeport, Texas. He was raised by his loving parents, Leonard and Pauline, in a humble, modest home. Though the house was small, it was overflowing with life, nurtured by close cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. It was during his middle school years that Paul formed a circle of friends-bonds so strong and true that they became his lifelong companions, remaining by his side until the very end. A brilliant man admired by all who knew him, Paul attended Brazosport High School, where he was named valedictorian of his graduating class. Among his many high school achievements, he was awarded a college-sponsored Merit Scholarship from 14, 400 finalists. He was a proud member of the National Honor Society, the National Biology Honor Society Mu Alpha Theta, and the Engineering Technical Society. He also actively participated in the Houston Lighting and Power Pre Bowl Team, the Chemistry Club, the Exporter Band Council. That intellectual drive carried him to Rice University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in 1976, and then to the University of Texas School of Law, where he received his Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1979. He was also a member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International. Paul used his sharp intellect in service to his country, beginning a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps, in 1976, he was appointed Attorney and Counselor for the Western District of Tennessee. By 1983, he was appointed as lieutenant to the JAG Corps of the United States Navy as a Reserve Officer, eventually rising to the rank of Captain of the Naval Reserve Readiness Command Region 11 in Fort Worth, Texas in 1997. Paul joined the prestigious law firm of Ramey & Flock in Tyler, Texas, in 1984,while still active in the Naval Reserve. For nearly four decades, as an attorney and shareholder, he practiced law with the highest integrity until his retirement in 2022. He was a pillar of his profession, deeply respected by his peers and clients alike. But to view Paul only through his professional success is to miss the full, vibrant picture of who he was. Paul was a man of deep fascinations. Paul held a deep love for Texas heritage. He was an avid reader with a passion for history, a collector of antiques and rodeo memorabilia, and a lifetime member of the Texas Stampede, serving on operations committee. He traveled across the nation and into Canada to attend rodeos. He was also a man who knew how to find joy. Paul was a devoted George Strait fan who loved boot-scooting in dance halls near and far. If you ever shared a country-western dance with him, you knew he was a wonderful partner. He brought that same quiet enthusiasm to cheering for his beloved Texas Longhorns. A passionate fan of the Texas Longhorns, a bad call on the football field was one of the rare occasions that could ever prompt Paul to raise his voice. Paul was defined by a quiet, gentle demeanor and a dry sense of humor. His wit was subtle-if you missed it, you really missed it. Underpinning his entire life was a devout Christian faith. Paul read his Bible religiously, striving daily to live according to the Word and the promises of Christ’s teachings. Above all his academic, military, and legal accomplishments, Paul was most proud of his family. He was a loving father who absolutely cherished and adored his girls, Beth, Claire, and Robyn. Later in life, Paul found love again with his wife, Rosanna. Together, they celebrated eighteen wonderful years exploring new adventures around the world and across the great state of Texas. Rosanna stood faithfully by his side, and her unwavering love, admiration, and support never failed him. Please join us in honoring a man of profound brilliance, deep faith, and enduring love. While we grieve his loss, we take comfort in knowing he is reunited with his parents, and his brother, Larry. His legacy lives on through Rosanna; his children, Beth, Claire,Robyn,Marissa Bonner (Brennan), and Zachary Baurys; his granddaughter , Stella; cousins, Tanya Sharp and Norman Vance and the many friends who loved him. As a family, we want to extend our deepest, heartfelt thanks to those who helped look after Paul. Our family is forever grateful to the caregivers who walked alongside us throughout this journey. We offer our special thanks to Stella Johnson, Paul’s devoted caregiver, whose fierce love and support sustained us all. Thank you, Stella, for caring for Paul with such deep respect and enduring dignity. Paul was a well-respected, loving, and kind human being. He lived a life of honor, intellect, and grace, and he will be dearly missed. May he rest in eternal peace. For those who wish to honor Paul’s memory, a memorial donation made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, is a noble tribute to his journey: • Address: 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047 • Phone: (404) 935-6444 • Email: lbda@lbda.org

Paul Howard Gilliam

September 25, 1953 - July 30, 2026