Lloyd Lemuel Gillette, Jr., age 86 took his last breath in the early morning hours of June 12, 2021, at his home in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
Lloyd was born in Canandaigua, New York October 2, 1934, to Lloyd and Lillian Scire Gillette. Lloyd married the love of his life, Pearl July 1, 1965. He was a proud service member of the United States Army. After his time in the service, he was a long-haul trucker for over 50 years. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed football, NASCAR, and most of all, baseball. He developed a love of animals over the years and enjoyed going to the zoo and watching animal shows. Lloyd was a Christian by faith. He was a family man to the core. His deep love for his family was always apparent over the years. His grandson, John, was his pride and joy along with his granddaughter, Sierra. Lloyd was a real character, to put it mildly. He was fondly known as the "information booth" back in the day amongst the folks that frequented the local baseball fields when his grandson was playing ball because he always seemed to have the scoop on the current gossip at the time. He was quick-witted and a master of one-liners; he had a comeback for everything. Lloyd was always ready for conversation and a good cup of coffee.
Lloyd is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd L. Gillette and Lillian Scire Gillette; and brother-in-law, and best friend, Bernard B. Thomas.
He is survived by his wife, Pearl M. Gillette; daughter, Rae Schilder (Jonathan Bell); grandchildren, John Scott Gillette and Sierra LelaRae Schilder; sister, Tina Rae Celeste (Harold); sisters-in-law, Kathryn Thomas, Ruby Phillips, and Geraldine Phillips (James); and numerous nieces and nephews that he was very fond of.
The family would like to express sincere gratitude to the staff of VITAS Hospice for their care and compassion in Lloyd's final days.
A small graveside service will be held at Destin Memorial Cemetery on Thursday, June 17, 2021, at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers please donate to SOCKS (Save Our Cats & Kittens) of Fort Walton Beach.