Teddy Lynn Gilliam, age 73, former Clinton resident, was born March 29, 1952, in Tucumcari to Earl and Mildred (Smith) Gilliam. He passed away at his home in Kansas City on February 14, 2026, following a short battle with cancer.

Teddy worked in the security industry for many years. He was also a licensed diesel mechanic, although he chose not to pursue that profession full-time.

He loved setting off and watching fireworks and was known for being a lifelong smoker. Teddy especially enjoyed being a practical jokester, always keeping his friends and family laughing with his playful sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Mildred Gilliam, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Teddy is survived by his siblings, Tom Gilliam and Kim Vasquez, both of Clinton; his children, Greg Gilliam of Clinton, Oklahoma, T.L. Gilliam of Colony, Michelle Newman of Texas, Veronica Gilliam of Missouri, Ruthann Williams of Clinton, Jason Gilliam of Missouri, and William Gilliam of Missouri; 13 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

A private service will be scheduled at a later date. Services are under the direction of the Lee Hometown Funeral Home.