‘John B. “JB” Gillingham, 89, of Richland Center, died on Tuesday, December 31, 2019 at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison. He was born on February 18, 1930 in Gillingham, the son of John ‘Bernard’ and Margaret (Ferguson) Gillingham. JB graduated from Richland Center High School in 1948. After graduation he joined the Marines and served from 1948 until 1952. On October 3, 1953 he married Twila Fry at Peace United Methodist Church in Richland Center. With his love for animals, together they farmed in Gillingham for many years. After retiring from farming he drove school bus for the Richland School District. JB was a kind, gentle man who loved people. He enjoyed telling stories of his past and in his younger years was an avid raccoon hunter. JB liked watching sports on tv, but most of all enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.
JB is survived by his wife of 66 years Twila Gillingham, four children: Suzanne Gillingham of Madison, Cherri (Terry) Kalish- Vosberg of AZ, Sandy (Norm) Fruit of Viola, John Gillingham of Richland Center; 10 grandchildren: Addison Kalish, Andrew Kalish, Matthew (Shayla) Kalish, Heidi (Ty) Martin, Brian (Lisseth) Fruit, Kim (Scott) Spiess, Karen (Ed) Liegel, Kelly (Rachel) Fruit, John Gillingham V, Melissa Gillingham; 13 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
JB was preceded in death by his parents, sisters: Joyce Reno, Avis Lloyd, and brother Dean Gillingham.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 10, 2020 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Fancy Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2020 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 11:00 AM until the time of Service at 1:00 PM. The family suggest memorials in JB’s name be given to the Fancy Creek Cemetery. The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.