Edward Elliotte "Spider" Gilliam

Edward Elliotte "Spider" Gilliam 

March 31, 1941 – November 3, 2026

Edward Elliotte "Spider" Gilliam, 85, a beloved musician, bricklayer, storyteller, and friend to everyone he met, passed away on November 3, 2026.

Born March 31, 1941, Spider was the son of J. E. "Ned" Gilliam and Sara Elliotte Gilliam. He served in the U.S. Army during the Cuban Missile Crisis, which may have contributed to his lifelong mantra: "Never get scared."

By trade he was a bricklayer, known for his perfect work. By calling he was a musician. He began his musical career with The Avantis, a ‘60s dance band, but bluegrass later became his lifelong choice. He was a recording artist and performed at the Grand Ole Opry, on Hee Haw and Pop Goes the Country. He spent years on the road as road manager and "sound man" for the legendary bluegrass band The Country Gentlemen. He played bass and recorded as part of the backup band for Senate Majority Leader Robert C. Byrd, performing at many high-level political functions in Washington, D.C. Whether on a big stage or a front porch, Spider provided the solid timing which he demanded in music and brought the fun to his audiences.

A car enthusiast, he was happiest when talking about or working on a good engine, but never happier than when he was telling a good story. He always had plenty of those. Anyone who sat down with him left with a smile and, usually, a tale to repeat for years. A “real catbird," he was truly one of a kind.

Above all, Spider was a devoted family man. He and his beloved wife, Bonnie, shared 64 years of marriage. She was the love of his life. He truly adored his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his daughters, Cheryl Tharp (Dan) and Julie Gilliam; his four grandchildren, Daniel Adams, Casey Clutter (Cooper), Lauren Bush, and Caroline Bush; and his sister, Susan Gilliam Carden of Virginia Beach, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Larry and Hugh.

Spider was a local legend, known and loved by all. Everyone knew Spider, and everyone who did was better for it. He will be remembered for his music, his laughter, his stories, and his generous heart.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Browning-Duffer Funeral Home, Keysville. A reception will be held following the service at Briery Country Club. The Browning-Duffer Funeral Home in Keysville, VA is in charge of arrangements.