It is with both heavy hearts and grateful spirits that we celebrate the life of Charles Gilland, who passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on November 30, 1942, in Carrollton, Georgia, Charles lived a life defined by steady devotion to his family, his work, his faith, and the community he quietly served for decades.

Charles was a proud graduate of Central High School and later answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force. That sense of responsibility and integrity followed him home and shaped the next 45 years of his life. He built a long and respected career in the construction industry as a construction superintendent with Joe N. Guy Company, Inc., where his leadership, craftsmanship, and work ethic left a lasting mark on countless projects and on the people who worked alongside him.

After retirement, Charles embraced life at a gentler pace, savoring the simple joys that mattered most to him. He found his greatest happiness in being a grandfather and great-grandfather, treasuring time spent with his great-grandchildren. He loved being outdoors, tending his garden, caring for his yard, and riding his lawnmower, activities that reflected his nurturing spirit and appreciation for hard work done well. At home, Charles was known far and wide as the beloved "cheesecake king," delighting family and friends with homemade cheesecakes that became a sweet and memorable expression of his love.

A faithful member of Roopville Road Baptist Church, Charles drew strength and purpose from his faith. He lived generously and humbly, offering help and kindness without seeking recognition. His quiet compassion touched many lives, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

For 60 years, Charles shared a devoted and enduring marriage with his wife, Dana Jackson Gilland. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, compassion, and family. Charles was a loving husband, a devoted father to his son and daughter-in-law, Richard and LaYvonda Gilland, a cherished brother to Linda Cagle, Gerald and Martha Gilland, and Steve and Dianne Gilland, and a proud grandfather to Brandon and Jessica Gilland, and Hannah Gilland. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Alaina Gilland, Alivia Gilland, Addison Perdue, Kennedy Perdue, and Isaiah Perdue, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Grover Granvel Gilland and Pauline Lyle Gilland; his son, Andy Gilland, whom he missed deeply; and his brother-in-law, Jimmy Cagle.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Charles's life. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Roopville Road Baptist Church, with Dr. Stephen Peeples and Rev. Chris Altman officiating. Charles will lie in state from 1:00 PM until the service hour, and interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Tony Hall, Al Chandler, Scott Cagle, Cameron Eison, Rocky Easterwood, and Nick Casaburri. His great-grandson, Isaiah Perdue, will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the Gilland family.