James D. Gillard III (Jim) passed away suddenly on January 15, 2025, at his home in Walla Walla after suffering a stroke.
Jim was born April 26, 1945, at McDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. In 1957, the family relocated to Chehalis, Washington.
Jim graduated from W.F. West High School in 1963 and then served three years in the U.S. Navy. He graduated from Pacific Coast Banking School at the University of Washington. Jim’s banking career began in 1968 with the National Bank of Commerce.
After years of moving around the state, Jim returned to Walla Walla, where he retired in 2014 as president of GESA Federal Credit Union.
Jim enjoyed vacationing in Cabo San Lucas and spending much of his time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, sports and, most of all, owning Corvettes. Jim was a member of the Walla Walla Corvette Club and had many Corvettes over the years — all of which he loved.
Jim is survived by his children, James D. Gillard IV, Jason P. Gillard, Anthony D. Gillard and Arrah D. Gillard, along with seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
