It is with broken hearts that the family of the late David “Joe” Charles Gillam announces his passing on Tuesday, May 12th, 2026, at Dr. Charles L. LeGrow Health Center with his loving family by his side, at the age of 75. Born in Port aux Basques, David was the son of the late Wilfred and Patricia Gillam.

David leaves to mourn with many fond and loving memories, his wife of 28 years, Jocelyn Gillam, and his special family in Margaree, Melanie (Travis) Walters, Marcus and Maddie.

He also leaves to mourn his brothers and sisters, Paul (Sandra) Gillam of Kitchen, Ont., Lorna (Ben) Savery of Port aux Basques, Sharyn (Daryl) Ulrich of London, Ont., Derek (Paula) Gillam of Cambridge, Ont., brother-in-law, Junior Bragg of Port aux Basques, brothers and sisters-in-laws, Alex (Anne Marie) Carter of Bedford, NS, Ken (Sharon) Carter, Janice (Gerald) Greene, both of MacDougall’s, and Holly (Brian) Farrell of Port aux Basques. David is also missed by special nieces, Angela and Jessica, nephews, Kenneth and Michael, close friends, Eli & Marcella Strickland and Lavina Morris, plus a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.

David, fondly known to many as Davey Joe, was a man who loved all he did in life. He was the proud operator of a fifth wheel at Marine Atlantic for 39 years before his retirement, an avid dart player and dancer, and a real lover of having his photo taken. He enjoyed a nice cup of tea and a cigarette, a good chat with anyone he would come across, and one of the things he found very funny was teaching the small children in the family how to swear in sign language. David was the official taxi driver for Ben’s basement dart team, and even though some said he was a slow driver, his services were always appreciated. Above all else, he had a love for his family, and he will be missed dearly.

David was predeceased by his parents, Wilfred and Patricia Gillam, parents in law Isaac and Geraldine Carter, sister, Bette Bragg, and sisters in law Julia Gillam.

In keeping with David’s wishes cremation has taken place. Family and friends may visit Oceanside Funeral Home on Friday, May 15th, from 2:00-4:00 P.M. and 7:00-9:00 P.M. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, May 16th, at 11:00 a.m. from St. James Anglican Church, with Rev. Jane Allen officiating. Interment to follow at St. James Anglican Cemetery, Barachois Hill. Flowers are accepted, or donations in memory of David can be graciously made to a charity of one’s choice. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Oceanside Funeral Home, 23 Read Street, Port aux Basques. Words of comfort can be sent to the family by visiting www.oceansidefh.ca