Gilliam Jr., Arthur Louis

Arthur Louis Gilliam Jr., of Somerset, N.J., beloved husband, father, son, and brother, journeyed home on Friday, March 9, 2012. Born on September 15, 1954, in Hampton, he was a 1972 graduate of Hampton High School, a 1976 graduate of Virginia Tech, and a proud brother of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. Professionally, Arthur was employed for many years at Miller Brewing Co. in Eden, N.C. and Anheuser Busch in Newark, N.J. Arthur was an avid Virginia Tech Hokies fan, and never lost hope in his Minnesota Vikings. One of his biggest joys was attending Yankees baseball games in the new stadium. After all, he was their number one fan. Arthur was preceded in death by his infant son, Stephen Arthur Gilliam, in 1984. Arthur is survived by his wife of almost 33 years, Bernita Brown Gilliam; daughter Amanda Gilliam and son-in-law, Narinder “Jimmy” Singh, of Washington, D.C.; son Arthur Louis Gilliam III, of Peoria, Ill., and honorary son, Peng Chao, of Philadelphia, Pa. He is also survived by his forever supportive and loving parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Gilliam, of Hampton. He was the eldest brother of Kenneth (Carolyn) Gilliam, of Hampton and Ronnie Gilliam, of Chesapeake. His extended family includes his mother-in-law, Mrs. Flossie Brown, of New River; sister-in-law, Patricia Thompson, of New River; brothers-in-law, Tony Ferguson (Diane), of Pulaski, Phillip Brown (Anne), of New River; the Rev. Montie Brown (Carolyn), of Radford; Leotis Watkins (Faye), of Piscataway, N.J.; and many additional family and friends. Especially missing “Pops” will be his special four legged fellas, his precious dogs, Scout and Barrett. Service will be held at First Missionary Baptist Church in New River on Thursday, March 15, 2012. Family visitation will begin at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral at 2 p.m. Condolences can be sent to pennsfuneralhome@gmail.com.