Lynn Gillingham

   Lynn Gillingham of Otego, NY departed from his Earthly life on Monday, April 8, 2024 at the age of 90. Lynn, more commonly known as “Gilly”, was born in Otego, NY on June 22, 1933 to Elizabeth May Gillingham (Wright) and Arthur William Gillingham. Gilly was a long-term resident of Otego, well known by the town for his pumpkins, Christmas trees, and love for masonry and construction. 

   Lynn married Joan E. Howland (Gillingham) on July 19, 1969 at the Methodist Church in Oneonta. They shared 51 years together until she predeceased him in 2020. Lynn was also preceded in death by his parents, Elizabeth and Arthur Gillingham; sister, Judy Canna; brother, Guy Gillingham; and sons, Daniel and Gordon Gillingham. He is survived by his children, Sandra (Clint) Fiaschi, Vicki (Steve) Judd, Richard Gillingham, Connie (Joseph) King, and Sherry (Peter) Barberio; grandchildren, Sam, Shelly, Mike, Paul, Justin, Charlie, Lauryn, Caleb, Kaeli, Corey, Ryan, Faith, Cody, Melody, Dallas, and Jocelyn; siblings, Mary Johnson-Butler, Nancy Dieball, Patricia Zelazny, and William (Bill) Gillingham; as well as several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Lynn loved and valued his family above anything else. He was selfless and generous to all, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

   Gilly was the type of guy who could make friends wherever he went, whether they were people or animals. He made the acquaintance of several squirrels, stray cats, and birds in his 90 years here, in addition to the countless friends that he held dear to his heart. Gilly had a passion for keeping his family’s farm up and running. In his retirement (if you can call it that), you could find him most days driving his tractor through the field, tending to pumpkins or Christmas trees, always preparing for his favorite time of year. More than anything, he loved growing and selling these things just so he could see the smile on his customers’ faces. Gilly genuinely loved to see other people happy and was always willing to go out of his way to assist others.

   Gilly’s career was spent as a bricklayer and master carpenter. Even well into his 80s, he was still doing brick work whenever he could. Gilly’s hands have touched the homes of many between Otego and Oneonta throughout the years. This was his craft and his true passion. 

   Gilly’s legacy will live on through his family and friends, and through the stories he recited throughout his life. He was a man who loved life for the simple joys and was the life of the party wherever he went. Gilly was truly a blessing to those who got to know him and to the Otego community.

   A service will take place on Friday, June 14, 2024 at Spirit & Truth Christian Assembly at 11:00, with a celebration of life to follow at the 6th Ward Athletic Club in Oneonta at 1:00. All are welcome to join and reminisce about Gilly’s life. Donations may be made to the Otego Rod and Gun Club or the Otego Fire Department in Lynn’s name.