Lois Darlene Gilliam, 81, of Benld, Illinois, passed away on January 26, 2022, at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, Illinois.

Lois was born September 2, 1940, to Foster and Lillie Mae (McGowin) McClain, in St. Louis, Missouri.

During her career, She was the first woman oiler in Operating Engineers Local 520 as well as being the first woman  to retire after 20 years of service.  She assisted in heavy equipment operating, was a mid-wife, and an ordained minister.  She could accomplish anything she tried.

Some of her hobbies included making cakes, crocheting, and learning new things.  Her biggest love was her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons: Jerry Gilliam and Sean Gilliam; sister, Marie Nance; brother: Gene McClain and Romie McClain.
SERVICES HAVE BEEN RESCHEDULED
Survivors include her children:  Cindy (John) Crisel of Benld, Illinois, Ricky (Lynne) Gilliam of Gillespie, Illinois, Angie Caver of Royal Lakes, Illinois, and Jeff (Morgan Jesmer) Gilliam of Zuni, Virginia; brother, Alan McClain of Fisk, Missouri; daughter-in-law, Michelle Hughes of Peoria, Illinois; 19 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Monday, February 7, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Herr Funeral Home, 501 W. Main Street, Collinsville, Illinois. Funeral service will take place on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Herr Funeral Home with Rev. Nathan Wells officiating.  Burial will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, Illinois.

Donations

Christ Gospel Church

2814 Victory Lane

Granite City, Illinois 62040