Fred Hime Gillham, Sr., 83, of Clifton, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025. Born on September 14, 1942, in his family’s home in Clifton, Fred was the beloved son of the late Fred E. Gillham and Delia Belle (Hime) Gillham.
Fred was truly one of a kind—they broke the mold, as many who knew him would say. He possessed a gentle spirit and a generous heart, marked by kindness, intelligence, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. He loved his family dearly and was devoted to his dogs, animals, and the beauty of nature. Birds and squirrels would gather in his driveway each day, knowing Fred would be there to feed them. He cherished God’s creation and found peace on the Tennessee River, the same river in which he was baptized.
A lifelong history enthusiast, Fred could talk for hours about the past and had a particular passion for preserving it. Alongside his wife, he restored two antebellum homes—Elm Springs and Hamilton Place—projects that reflected both his love of history and his dedication to honoring heritage. His hometown of Clifton held a special place in his heart, and Fred contributed to his community in many ways, often quietly and without recognition.
Fred was deeply involved in civic and fraternal organizations. He was a proud member of the Freemasons, Shriners, Sons of the Confederacy, Order of the Southern Cross, Sons of the American Revolution, and the NHRA. His commitment to these groups reflected his values, his love of tradition, and his desire to be of service.
His passion for speed and machinery defined another major part of his life. Fred began drag racing in the late 1960s and quickly became a formidable competitor, racing throughout the Southeast and winning numerous championships. He loved classic cars and owned many over the years.
A natural entrepreneur and enthusiastic wheeler-dealer, Fred founded TIMCO, Inc., a business specializing in buying and selling refurbished metal-working equipment. There was rarely a moment he wasn’t working on a deal, and if you met him, even once, you likely walked away with his business card. His energy, business savvy, and drive were unmatched.
Fred leaves behind a legacy of generosity, hard work, curiosity, and an unwavering love for the people and places that shaped his life. He touched many lives, human and animal alike, and his memory will continue to live on in the stories shared by those who knew him.
Fred is survived by his wife: Kelli Gillham; children: Jennifer Morrison, Fred Gillham, Jr., and Holly (Rodney) Brown; stepson: Brandon Brewer; grandchildren: Ellie Brown, Ethan Brown, and Fred “Trey” Hime Gillham, III; and mother of his chiildren: Mary Gillham Fred is preceded in death by his parents, sister Archie Dee Gillham; and son-in-law: Michael Morrison.
The family will receive friends Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 1st Presbyterian Church of Clifton from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. A funeral Service for Fred will begin at 3:00 p.m. immediately following visitation with Bro. Clyde Carroll officiating. Burial will follow at Clifton Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Tommy Tinin, Jeff Wilkes, Dwight “Gator” Thompson, Larry McMillan, Jamie Keymon, Alan Himes, Chad Boswell.
Honorary Pallbearers are Duke Harry, Don “Rabbit” Milan, Autry Gobbell, Harry Floyd, and the staff and caregivers of NHC Maury.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to 1st Presbyterian Church of Clifton and the Clifton Masonic Lodge.
Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family online at www.williamsfh.com
This obituary was published by Williams Funeral Home & Crematory.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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