Shirley A. (Lessner) Gilliam, 75, of Brunswick, passed away on Jan. 8 after losing her battle with cancer. She died peacefully, surrounded by her family, just five days shy of her 76th birthday.
The daughter of Charles and Marguerite Lessner, Shirley was born in Damariscotta in 1937. She lived and raised her family there until 1964, when she moved to Bath. Later, Shirley cooked for and managed the snack bar at Yankee Lanes in Brunswick, a role she filled for many years; she fed thousands of people over the years, and her fish chowder will be missed by all.
Her whole life was dedicated to her family, however, and the titles in which she took the greatest pride were that of daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.
She was predeceased by her husband, Frank Gilliam.
She is survived by her son, David Jacobs; daughter, Nancy Bulges; son-in-law, Frank Bulges; granddaughter, Crystal Bulges; grandsons, David Jacobs Jr. and William Pinkham; sister, Mabelle Sykes; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In the spring, a graveside service will be held at the family cemetery in Damariscotta.
Condolences may be sent to Shirley’s family at 64 Cobb Farm Dr., Westbrook 04092, or by visiting www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.
