Sidney James Gillikin, 87, of Foley, passed away Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011. He was born May 25, 1924 in Hamlet, N.C.
Mr. Gillikin retired from the Civil Service after a long and successful career. He was most proud of his service to our country, and retired as a Major in the U.S. Army. He served in both World War II and the Korean Conflict.
Mr. Gillikin was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Foley. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and had many friends in the community.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ellen Gillikin; his father and mother, Donald and Vera June Gillikin; three brothers, Donald Gillikin, Robert Gillikin and George Gillikin; and two sisters, Frances Russo and June Smith.
Survivors include his daughter, Bonnie (Larry) Leach; son, Thomas (Patricia) Arute; brother, Dean Gillikin; and sister, Ruth Goding. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be Monday, Nov. 21, 2011, at 3 p.m., at First Presbyterian Church of Foley, 195 E. Berry Ave. The family will receive friends at the church from 1 p.m. until the service hour.
Interment will be Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2011, at 12:30 p.m., at Barrancas National Cemetery aboard NAS Pensacola.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Building Fund at First Presbyterian Church of Foley.
Arrangements by Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home, Pensacola.
