Biography: Maggie Gilliam was born July 28, 1933 in St. Helena, South Carolina to the late Isaiah and Phyllis Irene Glover. She was called home January 23, 2020. She was predeceased by her siblings: James Duncan of Burton, SC, Herman Duncan of New York, NY; John Glover, Sr. of St. Helena Island, SC; Richard Glover, Sr. of St. Helena Island, SC and Handsome Legree of St. Helena Island, SC.
Maggie received her formal education in Elton School in St. Helena, South Carolina. At an early age she migrated to New York for a better life. She found her niche in health care as a Home Attendant until she retired in 1999. During the 1960’s she met the charismatic and love of her life, the late John Henry Gilliam, who she married. They were blessed with three children.
Maggie found Christ at an early age and joined Ebenezer AME Church in Harlem, NY. She was an active member and served on the Usher Board, Stewards Board, Gospel Chorus, Senior Choir and Missionary Board. She loved music and did not hesitate to join the Golden Stars with Sarah Emerson, Flossie Darden, Lorraine Emerson and Mr. Louis as the guitarist. The Golden Stars were well known throughout Harlem. She did not stop expressing her passion for music by forming her own gospel group known as “The New Gospel Tones” with Flossie Darden, Dora Smoot, Crystal Gilliam, Terrence Smoot, Barbara Jones and Florie Smoot.
Maggie also known as Galzee enjoyed cooking, caring for the sick and family. She prides herself on the value of reaching new heights by achieving more through education. She was the nucleus that held this family together.
Maggie leaves to mourn three children: Raymond Glover of Los Angeles, CA; Jonathan Gilliam (Crystal) of Seaside Heights, NJ and Barbara Jones (Carlo) of Newburgh, NY. One goddaughter, Monisa Gardner Page (Robert) of St. Helena Island, SC. Five grandchildren: Jennifer Archer of Petersburg, VA; Jarrell Robinson (Christina) of Houston, TX; Shaunica Graham (Leggett) of Emporia, VA; Don “Sho-don” Gilliam of Petersburg, VA and Auriel Negron (Carlos) of Toms River, NJ. Nine great-grandchildren: Phoenix, Sarai, Angie, Da’Kavion, Iyanah, Sho-don Jr., Chad, Harmony and Shaun. Three sisters-in-law: Mary Glover of St. Helena, SC; Mary Simmons of Burton, SC and Elizabeth Mebane of Windsor, NC; forever devoted and loving cousin, Christina Healy of New York, NY and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.