Mary Nell Gilliland

March 22, 1937 - May 15, 2025

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Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers

6025 82nd Street

Lubbock, TX 79424

Thursday 5/22, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers

6025 82nd Street

Lubbock, TX 79424

Friday 5/23, 10:00 am

Mary Nell was born on March 22, 1937, in Tenbroeck, Alabama, and graduated from Geraldine High School in Geraldine, AL. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Pernell Gilliland, and together they were blessed with four children.

She worked as a telephone operator, at Levi Strauss, and as a nurse’s aide. In 1971, Mary moved to West Texas, where she found her spiritual home at Trinity Church during its early beginnings. There, she joyfully served in the nursery for over 10 years. She also dedicated more than 20 years of her life working as a Nikon operator at Texas Instruments until her retirement.

Mary’s unwavering love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of her life. She had a deep desire for others to know Jesus and live in His love. A gifted musician, she enjoyed playing the piano and singing. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—walking her dog, Gracie, quilting, and faithfully writing in her daily journals. Most lovingly known as Grandma Mary, she called her grandchildren her “Sugar Pops,” and her final words, “I love you too, Sugar Pop,” are a lasting testament to the deep affection she held for her family.

She is survived by her brother, Rod Gilbert; her children: Mike Gilliland, Jimmy Gilliland, Tonda (JB) Kirk, and Karen Gilliland; and her “daughters of love”: Maranda, Leandra, and Goga. She was a cherished grandmother to: Tiffany & Kasey, Shala, Cody, LaRae & Jacob, Sean & Brittany, Billy, Jordan & Kaitlin, Macayla & Jason, Haley, Camille, Christin, Carissa, Meagan & Chevy, Jericho, and Caitlyn. She also leaves behind over 30 great-grandchildren, each one dearly loved and remembered as her Sugar Pops.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, James and Leola Gilbert; her former husband, Pernell Gilliland; four brothers, Tom, Mark, Rhondell, and Brad; three sisters, Carolyn, Sandra, and Lydia; and three grandsons, Lil Jimmy, J.-Paul, and Garrett.

Mary touched the lives of many with her kindness, strength, and faith. Though she is no longer with us in person, her spirit and legacy will live on in all who knew and loved her.

It is with joyful hearts that we announce the heavenly homecoming of our beloved mother, Mary Nell Gilliland, who peacefully passed away on May 15, 2025, at the age of 88, to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Mary Nell was born on March 22, 1937, in Tenbroeck, Alabama, and graduated from Geraldine High School in Geraldine, AL. InContinue Reading

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Celebrating the Life of Mary Nell Gilliland

Broadcasted 5/23/25 10:55am - 5/23/25 11:46am

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Our hearts go out to you during this time of loss.

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You and your family are in our thoughts during this difficult time.

My heart weighs heavy for your loss. Mary had a kind spirit. I know that’s where Tonda get hers from. I love you all and I’m holding close in my heart

I never had a visit that aunt Mary didn't pray for me before i left.( sometimes in tongues) .She always had a song on her heart no matter what trial/tribulation she was facing! Her "sugiepops"were her blessings and know she always ---- always talked about what good they were doing! I don't recall her ever talking down or gossiping about anyone but always keeping everyone on her prayer list. She loved her church family and when she was not at the church she had it going on the tv, radio or computer. She always had a songbook open on her piano and ready to sing and praise Jesus. I know she will be greatly missed here on earth but.... she is in Jesus' arms and dancing and singing with the angels!!!! Love you all!!! Kitta (Gilbert)Watts