Joseph “Joe” Gilman

In Loving Memory of Joseph “Joe” Gilman

Joseph “Joe” Gilman was born on December 3, 1936, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Jeanette and Joseph Gilman & he passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and family in Sugar Land, Tx on June 20, 2026. He was the oldest of triplets. Joe attended elementary school in Cincinnati and graduated from Norwood High School in 1954. During his high school years, he excelled in track and baseball, beginning a lifelong love of athletics that continued well into his 40s.

Shortly after graduating, Joe enlisted in the United States Army, where he served four years as a radio operator. He later continued his military service in the United States Air Force Reserve for an additional six years, serving as a radio operator aboard the Fairchild C-119, a twin-engine military transport aircraft. Joe served as the aircraft’s radio operator, maintaining critical communications between the flight crew and ground stations. During his service, he flew missions supporting the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, one of the most pivotal moments of the Cold War. Alongside countless other servicemen, he helped maintain military readiness during a time when the world stood on the brink of nuclear conflict.

Following his military service, Joe married Pat, and together they welcomed three children: Jill, Joy, and Jimmy.

Joe began his civilian career inspecting oilfield equipment, a path that led to a distinguished career as a mechanical engineer with some of the world’s leading energy companies, including Halliburton, Chevron, and Kellogg Brown & Root (KBR). His work took him across the globe, allowing him to live and work in many different places. Of all his travels, Venezuela and Japan held a special place in his heart. He especially loved sharing stories about Japan with anyone who would listen.

While working in Venezuela, Joe made the most important decision of his life when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His faith became the foundation upon which he built the rest of his life. It guided his actions, strengthened his character, and filled him with gratitude and hope. After returning home, he faithfully attended church, where God led him to meet the love of his life.

In 2000, Joe met Sharon, beginning a beautiful love story that would span the next 25 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and adventure. They shared a passion for travel, golf, and baseball. Joe delighted in taking Sharon to as many baseball games as he could, and when the Sugar Land Skeeters were founded near their home, he surprised her with a 70-game season ticket package. While he enjoyed cheering for the Houston Astros, his loyalty to his hometown Cincinnati Reds never faded.

Joe and Sharon traveled throughout much of the United States, always making sure to pack their golf clubs. Among their favorite adventures were unforgettable trips to Hawaii and Alaska. They also treasured countless days spent with family and friends at Pecan Grove Country Club, creating memories that would last a lifetime. One of their greatest joys was taking their grandchildren to Walt Disney World, where they experienced the magic of seeing the world through young eyes.

Above all else, Joe was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He lived a life defined by faith, service, integrity, humility, and generosity. Whether serving his country, providing for his family, traveling the world, or cheering on his favorite baseball team, Joe approached life with quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and a grateful heart.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, perseverance, and countless cherished memories. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his example and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come.