Betty “Mimi” Jane (Dixon) Gilliam passed away in her home on Sunday, March 22, 2026.  She was born to Woodrow Clement Dixon and Marjorie Jane (Dobson) Dixon on November 1, 1942 in Rockwood, Tennessee.  Betty was married to Ellis Gilliam and enjoyed 50 years with him before his passing.  Later in life, she found her companion in Bernie Reece and has spent the last 16 years with him.  Together they enjoyed going to the river and watching the ducks. 

Betty enjoyed gardening and loved her roses.  She enjoyed watching the birds, cooking and baking, shopping, reading, and going to musical shows.  Betty loved to travel – especially to the beach.  She enjoyed spending time with her family and loved them all unconditionally.  Spending time with all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was one of her favorite things to do.  Betty was always available to listen to anyone who needed it; she taught her loved ones to be strong and fierce, a trait she leaves behind in all of her family.

Betty is preceded in death by both of her parents; husband, Ellis Gilliam; sons, Paul Randall and Michael Anthony; brother, Richard Lynn Dixon; and sister, Gloria Sue Dixon Sharpe.

Betty is survived by her daughters, Deborah Gilliam Klutts (Kevin), Susan Elizabeth Gilliam Kurtz, and Michele Elaine Gilliam Bair (John); grandchildren, Ashley Nichole Hempfling, Sara Beth Janniche, Jennifer Bair, and Michael Gilliam, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Mason Gaffney, Kaden Hempfling, Landon Hempfling, Hazel Janniche, Autumn Janniche, Rowan Janniche, another Janniche on the way; her significant other, Bernie Reece; and their shared beloved 9 year-old Yorkie, Coco.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Cremation has been entrusted to Samaritan Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be made at www.samaritanfunerals.com