JAMES W. GOMILLION

James W. Gomillion, 92, of Vestavia Hills, passed away Dec. 14, 2010.

He was born on June 16, 1918. He was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Leota Gomillion, and brothers, J.V. and Grady.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mildred Lambert; daughters, Dianne Denet and Amy (Brian) Wall of Vestavia Hills and Jane (Hank) Lambert of San Gabriel, Calif.; sister, Ruby (Benson) Tomlin; grandchildren, John (Michelle) Dent, Andree (Bryce) Northen, Graham Dent, Brendan Wall, Collin Wall, Elizabeth Clair Lambert, Norman James Lambert and Mary Jane Lambert; and four great-grandchildren.

He was a U.S. Army World War II veteran who enlisted in August 1940 and served until September 1945. He served in the 1st and 2nd Armored Divisions in North Africa and Italy. He lived most of his life in Andalusia and was a member of the First Baptist Church and the Baracca Class. He was employed with Andalusia Textiles for 30 years.

Most importantly, he was “Big Daddy.” He was the happiest while spending time with his family. He enjoyed going to the ballpark and coffee shop and having lunch out with his daughters. He had a great sense of humor and loved making everyone laugh. He loved being with people and would often strike up a conversation with others. He spent most of his days outdoors working in his flower and vegetable gardens. His life exemplified dignity and grace. He taught us that the simplest rituals in life are the most important.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to his caregivers, Danyale Bell, Janice Ford and Lisa Haynes.

The family will honor his memory on Sat., Dec. 18, at 11 a.m. at Foreman Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Andalusia Memorial Cemetery with Dr. Fred Karthaus officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Big Oak Ranch, P.O. Box 507, Springdale, AL 35146.