Paul W. Gillum (87) of Effingham

Paul W. Gillum, 87, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Sunday, November 26, 2023 at his home.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 4, 2023 at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham with military rites. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 4, 2023 prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will be in Arborcrest Memorial Park at a later date. Memorials may be made to Watson United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

Paul was born on February 25, 1936, in Mount Erie, IL, the son of Bertram and Rosalind (Best) Gillum. He married Fern Lee Crosier on September 5, 1956 in Leesburg, GA. Paul served his country in the United States Air Force Medical Corps during Vietnam Conflict and retired after 20 years. Paul enjoyed being outside and gardening. He also was known for the crafts he made and sold. Paul was an avid Illini basketball fan and over the years, found joy by playing any sport with a ball. Family was important to Paul, and being around them brought a smile to his face.

Paul is survived by his wife, Fern Gillum of Effingham; children, Steven (Teresa) Gillum of Effingham, Darren (Jody) Gillum of Dieterich, and Keven (Tina) Gillum of Effingham; 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; sister, Thera Sue (Michael) Werschey; and sister-in-law, Kathy Gillum.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Brian Gillum; grandson, Brent Gillum; great-grandson, Avery Muhs; and siblings, Bertram Gillum, Donald Gillum, Jerry Gillum, and Shirley Gill.