Roy D Gilliland

Roy Dudley Gilliland Jr., 77, of Commerce, Texas, passed away on April 16, 2026. Roy was born on January 10, 1949, and spent most of his life in Commerce, where he built deep roots and lasting memories with those he loved. A memorial service is planned for Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Commerce Funeral Home.

Roy proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, serving his country for two years and continuing in the reserves for four more. After his service, Roy and his family moved to Wyoming, where he began his service to the community as a preacher. Returning to Texas two years later, he and his stepfather owned and operated Wee Care Daycare. Through every chapter of his life, Roy carried strength, dedication, and a deep love for his family. After many years of hard work, he retired, but his greatest role was always being a father, grandfather, and someone his family could count on. He graduated from Farmersville High School in 1968 and went on to attend Independent Baptist College, where he studied business. His faith and values guided the way he lived and how he loved others. In the last couple of years, Roy grew especially close with his family, sharing countless conversations, stories, and laughter that will be deeply missed. Those moments meant everything and will be cherished forever. He was blessed to watch his grandchildren grow, build their lives, and form strong bonds with them, as well as meet and love his great-grandchildren-memories that will never be forgotten. 

He is survived by his son, Johnny Gilliland; his sister, Debbie Neal; his stepbrothers, Wayne Gilliland and Herb Gilliland; his grandchildren, Jordan Hudson and her husband Brandon Hudson, Ashley Milberger and her husband Kevin Milberger, Dustin Gilliland and his wife Britney Gilliland, and Cody Stiles; and his great-grandchildren, Jaxon Hudson, Rayleigh Gilliland, Brayden Milberger, Charles Hudson, Easton Gilliland, Travis Hudson, Braylen Milberger, River Gilliland, and Oaklee Gilliland. His love for his family was strong, steady, and something they will carry with them always. 

Roy is preceded in death by his father, Roy Dudley Gilliland Sr.; his mother, Ruth Jeanette Windham; his sister, Gloria Jeanette Rose; and his daughter, Valerie Kay Gilliland. 

Saying goodbye to Roy is not easy. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, the way he showed up for his family, and the laughs and conversations that made even ordinary moments special. He leaves behind a family who will miss him deeply but will forever hold onto the love he gave them