Perry William Gilliam, age 73, passed away Friday, February 7, 2025, in Fort Wayne, IN.  He was born in Cartersville, VA to the late John and Sally Gilliam.  Perry worked as a handyman, truck driver, and had an entrepreneurial spirit.  He was an avid NASCAR fan, and will be remembered most for his friendly nature and the love he showed for his family and freinds.  Perry is survived by his life-partner of 25 years, Donna Harter;  children, Kyona Gilliam, Johnathon Reynolds, and Michael Gilliam; step-children, MaryAnn Reynolds, Brandon (Amanda) Tibbetts, Jessica Tomlinson, and Hillary (Jessie) Steger;  10 grandchildren, Nay, DJ, Kim, Shae, Jeff, Qyona, Kietana, Jaden, Kane, Arya;  two great-grandchildren Jah'Nae and G-baby;  four brothers, Howard Gilliam, Willie Gilliam, Phillip Gilliam, and James Gilliam.  He was also preceded in death by a brother and sister.  Service is 5:00 pm, Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Fairhaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N. Clinton St., with calling two hours prior beginning at 3:00 pm.  Memorials may be made to  Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.  To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com