Alfrettus Gilliam

Alfrettus Gilliam, age 88 of 805 W. Rose St, Sanford NC passed on Monday, April 15, 2019 at her residence. 

Alfrettus Chalmers Gilliam was the daughter of the late Parker Holmes Chalmers and Ella Smith (Dowdy). Alfrettus was born in Cameron, NC on October 25, 1930. Growing up she worshipped with her family at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in Cameron, NC. Early in life she was married to the late Fletcher Gilliam however they remained lifelong friends and to this union five children were born. Alfrettus departed from this life to glory on Monday, April 15, 2019.  She was 88 years old.

Alfrettus received her formal education at Johnsonville High School in Cameron NC.  She attended Shaw University in Raleigh, NC from September 07, 1951 - July 15, 1955 where she received a Bachelor’s of Art in Elementary Education. Dr. John Owens Plummer who benefited from her awesome cooking was instrumental in providing financial support for her higher education. Alfrettus devoted 30 years of service to children in the North Carolina Public School System. After her retirement she briefly worked as a greeter at Wal-Mart.  She enjoyed socializing with others at the Bread Basket, Bread of Life and the Lee County Enrichment Center. Alfrettus was a beloved member of New Life Praise Church in Sanford, NC. She enjoyed going there, she loved her church family was admired by many. Alfrettus blessed her family and loved her children in her own special way. She loved life and her dream was to live to be 100 years old. She will always be remembered for her delicious cooking, red lipstick and friendly smile.

Alfrettus was preceded in death by her son, Christopher Gilliam and her grandson, Ashley Gilliam. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Etruly Chalmers Brown, Dorsie L. Horsey, Lincoln H. Chalmers, Sidney Chalmers, Jestine C. Smith, James Henry Chalmers, Catherine Chalmers, and Avent Chalmers.

Alfrettus leaves to cherish her memories, one son, Arnold Gilliam; three daughters, Marcelina Gilliam, Marion Gilliam and Marilyn Gilliam; three sisters, Corena Chalmers Smith, Jeta L. Parraway and Jewel Brewington; two grandsons, Martin Gilliam and Chmira Dayvon Gilliam; a granddaughter, Kavalon Gilliam; great granddaughter, Kamia Gilliam; great grandson, Jason Gilliam; her beloved great grandson, Ashley Gilliam; special friend of the Chalmers family Mr. Glenn Saunders and a host of relatives and friends.

Arrangements By: Knotts Funeral Home, Sanford