David Gerald Gilliland, a lifelong resident of Ludlow, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the age of 88. Born the son of Frank and Lillian (Hooker) Gilliland on October 20, 1937, in Ludlow. David lived a life deeply rooted in his community and the land he cherished. David was united in marriage to Betty Ann Lewis on October 31, 1958 at the Parsonage in Dawn, Missouri. She survives of the home. They shared 66 of their 68 years together in the same home.

A proud graduate of Breckenridge High School, David dedicated his life to farming, working as a self-employed farmer in Ludlow. His commitment to agriculture was matched by his dedication to his community. David was an active member of the Ludlow Community Church and the Ludlow Lions Club. He also served on the Southwest School Board for nine years and was a long-standing member of the Livingston County Soil and Water Conservation Board. David's passions extended beyond farming. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and he found joy in gardening and woodworking. For over 50 years, he hosted the beloved 4th of July fish fry at "Camp David" by the lake, a tradition that brought family and friends together in celebration. His love for nature was evident in his active involvement in wildflower fields and conservation efforts.

David is survived by his wife, Betty Ann; two daughters, Ellen Donoho (Bob) of Ludlow, Missouri, and Julie Ann Hart (David) of Carrollton, Missouri. He leaves behind five grandchildren: Emily Bond (Tia), Carah Wold (Nick), Brendan Kelly (Loren), Michael Donoho (Mary), and Kim Peterson, as well as 13 great-grandchildren: Noah Bond, Tegan Bond, Grayson Bond, Brooks Wold, Isla Kelly, Odin Kelly, Zach Peterson, Peityn Peterson, Kix Mensa, Anabelle Donoho, Christopher Donoho, Elijah Donoho, and Samuel Donoho. David is also survived by his three sisters, Marilyn Carson (Paul), Nola Zeltwanger, and Janice Swanson (Bob Kopp), along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lillian Gilliland; three brothers, Richard, Pat, and Dohn Gilliland; four sisters, Carol Lamb, Grace Smith, Nina Thomas, and Mina Andersen; and his granddaughter, Brianna Marie Kelly.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Ludlow Community Church, Ludlow, Missouri on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 2:00 pm. A visitation will be held at the Ludlow Community Church in Ludlow, Missouri, on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 p.m. Inurnment will be held at the Monroe Cemetery, Ludlow, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to Monroe Cemetery and/or the National Parkinson's Association and may be left at or mailed to Lindley Funeral Home, PO Box 47, Chillicothe, Missouri 64601. Online contributions may be left at www.lindleyfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.