Robert “Mr. G.” E. Gilliam

FREEPORT – Robert “Mr. G.” E. Gilliam, 88, passed away Friday July 4, 2025 at Winship Green Nursing Home.

He was born in Harpswell on March 21, 1937, a son of John and Florence Gilliam. Due to family break up he moved to a Freeport foster home in December of 1937 where he was raised by foster parents Bernard and Emma Sydleman. There, Robert became a Sydleman son spending a happy life there to the age of 24.

He graduated from Freeport High School in the class of 1956. He joined the United States Marine Corps active duty and later in the reserves. In 1961 he married his high school sweetheart, Evelyn A. Ware. In 1959-1964, he was employed at the Mill in Lisbon Falls. From 1964 to 1981 he was a division manager for Prudential Insurance.

At the death of his father B. W. Sydleman in 1978, Robert, Evelyn, son Michael and daughter Holly moved from Yarmouth back to the Sydleman’s Farm on Wardtown Road in Freeport. Retiring in 1981, he became a landlord and was around for his children and their needs. Many fun memories at the 50-acre farm as Michael and Holly grew up. They had farm animals, gardens, haying season and more.

He was a master mason for 62 years in the Freeport Lodge, was a Past Dad Advisor and Past President of Junior Chamber of Commerce.

He was a life long collector of Maine gem minerals, enjoyed entertaining and hosting at their home, enjoyed spending time at the cottage in Freeport and the camp on Prong Pond. His greatest passion was time spent with his three grandsons, Jeffrey, Keegan and Devon.

He was predeceased by his parents, foster parents; and his wife, Evelyn Gilliam in 2007.

He is survived by his son, Michael Gilliam of Freeport, his daughter, Holly Gilliam of Warren; three grandsons, Jeffrey, Keegan and Devon.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, July 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Daigle Funeral Home, 819 High St., Bath. Burial will be at Burr Cemetery in Freeport at a later date. Condolences may be made online at http://www.DaigleFuneralHome.com.

The family would like to thank Winship Green Nursing Home in Bath for their care.