04/25/2010
Carmen Ruth (Cooley) Gilliland was born June 6, 1923, in Knoxville, Iowa, the daughter
of Roy Coolley and Ella (Ridnouer) Coolley.
On April 21, 1942, Carmen was united in marriage to Harold Gilliland in Unionville,
Missouri. She worked as the Assistant City Clerk to the City of Knoxville until
her retirement in 1988. Carmen was a lifelong Knoxville resident and chose to remain
after the passing of her husband of 59 years.
She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, secretary of both the First
United Methodist Church Sarah Circle and also the Marion County Historical Society.
She enjoyed volunteering at the historical museum and spending time in her garden.
Carmen was very proud of her grandchildren and all of their accomplishments
She passed away on Sunday, April 25, 2010, at her home at the age of 86 years, 10
months and 19 days. Carmen was preceded in death by her parents and her husband,
Harold.
Survivors include her son, Marvin (Virginia) Gilliland of Des Moines; grandchildren,
John (Holly) Gilliland of West Des Moines, Jennifer (Scott)
Cappos of Iowa City, Jessica (Jon) Brandon of Ames; and 8 great-grandchildren.
Arrangements by Bybee & Davis Funeral Home.
Services at the First United Methodist Church Knoxville.
Internment at Olive Chapel Cemetery.
Memorials: Olive Chapel Cemetery Fund