William Madison Lillard Jr.

William “Bill” Lillard Jr, age 81, of Gallatin, TN passed away on August 29th, 2024. Mr. Lillard was born on July 14th, 1943, to the late William M. Lillard Sr. and Mary Hopkins.

Mr. Lillard was a member of the Buffalo Springs Missionary Baptist Church. He was a man of strong Christian faith. Not only serving his Lord and savior, but his country. Bill was a member of the United States Army, showcasing a commitment to duty that mirrored his deep love for his family and community. He retired from R. R. Donnely and Sons as a machinist after 30 years of dedication to the company. Bill’s family was of the utmost importance to him. Anytime he got to spend with them was time spent creating cherished memories. Family vacations, holidays, and his being involved in his family’s lives brought him immense joy.

Bill was an avid lover of sports, both as a player and a spectator. His passion for athletics was unmatched; it was said that he played nearly every sport known to man, except football. He was a member of the Senior Olympic Basketball Team, he found joy not only in competition but in the camaraderie it brought.

Living a very active lifestyle, Bill reveled in spending time outdoors. Alongside his wife, they would tend to their garden, finding peace in the simple pleasures of nature. His heart swelled with pride as he cheered for his grandchildren during their various sports endeavors. Each game was an occasion for celebration, filled with his signature enthusiasm that inspired everyone around him.

His hobbies reflected not just a passion for activity but a zest for life itself. Whether it was fishing on a tranquil morning, camping under starlit skies, or hunting, Bill was a man who cherished the great outdoors and the adventures it offered. His laughter echoed through the trees and rivers where he spent so much time, creating an indelible mark on all who joined him.

Bill is preceded in death by his mother Mary Hopkins and father William M. Lillard Sr., brother Ronnie Lillard, grandson Tyler R. Overstreet and great granddaughter Jemma. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Margie Faye Lillard, daughters Jana Rigsby (Ricky) and Leigh Anne Chandler (Tony). He is also survived by his grandchildren Kayley Wilson (Quinten), Lea Bradley, Justin Chandler (Krystal), Kara Chandler, Josh Rigsby, Caleb Rigsby (Kelly), Aaron Rigsby and Jordan Rigsby. Bill leaves behind his great grandchildren Ashton, Mason, Payton, Wyatt, Marley, Aiden, Aurora, Stella, Asher, and Garrett, as well as his brothers Barry Lillard (Connie) and David Lillard (Joyce). He was a loving husband, father, friend, and Pa too many more.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bill's life through visitation on September 3, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM and again on September 4, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, located at 584 Nashville Pike in Gallatin, TN. A funeral service will follow on September 4 at 2:00 PM, also at Alexander Funeral Home, culminating with a burial at Crestview Memory Gardens at 3:00 PM.