Message from DB

I just learned about the death of your loved one. Death hurts the living, no matter what relationship you had with the deceased. We often have questions that go unanswered, such as; "What's happening to my loved one? " "Can I help them in any way?" "Can they hurt or help me or my family?" "Can I communicate with them?" "Where can I find answers to these & other questions?"
I have found that the Bible has satisfying answers to my questions.
For example, go to your copy of the Bible and read Ecclesiastes 9:4,5,10. Would you not agree that these scriptures tell us that: (1) That the dead are unconscious & can't help or hurt us.
For more Bible information & answers to your question(s): Go to www.jw.org. Scroll down to the bottom of the page & select 'ANSWERS TO BIBLE QUESTIONS'. SELECT the question(s) that you want a Bible answer to.
If you need more assistance, please contact me at "Endurancefirst4537@outlook.com.

A candle was lit by Tanji Johnston on July 3, 2017 8:49 PM

Message from M J Jarmon

I know Michele and the Gilliam family and friends have saddened hearts because of losing Eric recently in death. So I want to share beautiful scripture where our loving heavenly father, Jehovah, (Psalm 83:18) promises us that he is going to do away with man's greatest enemy, death. Rev. 21: 4; "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore." When our loved ones fall asleep in death, the pain and grief seems unbearable. Our loving God Jehovah understands how we feel and he comforts us by means of his word the Bible. ." Jehovah invites you to throw all your burdens on him and he will sustain you in your time of grief. (Psalm 34:18) For more comforting scriptures please visit: http://bit.ly/1K38EFt It has provided me with many more scriptures that have given me comfort, strengthened my faith and helped me find the answer to Why? I know it will do the same for you. God's kingdom that Jesus taught us to pray for at Matt. 6: 9, 10 will bring about these wonderful promises including the resurrection. (John 5: 28, John 6:40, John 11:23-25) Isaiah 26:19 "Your dead will live......And the earth will let those powerless in death come to life." Isaiah 25:8 "He will swallow up death forever. For Jehovah himself has spoken it." It is my prayer these scriptures will give you comfort in your grief. Again, I offer my sincere condolences to the family. Feel free to contact me if you wish at my email address: myranj@centurytel.net
I pray it will do your heart good to please watch this beautiful video (song 144) entitled "Keep Your Eyes on the Prize" https://tv.jw.org/#en/video/VODChildren/pub-pksn_24_VIDEO

Message from Judy Burk

Dear Michelle and family
For many of us, Riverview hasn't been the same without Eric. In the short time I worked with him I came to rely on his wisdom and compassion and humor. He (mostly) enjoyed the work. But it was very clear that his family was the center of the happiness he radiated. I cannot imagine your loss. I am deeply sorry.

A candle was lit by Charlie Burnham on June 30, 2017 3:04 PM

Message from Dan Wathen

I have only known Eric since he began his tour of duty at Riverview. He and Rod have been a breath of fresh air, marked by competence,compassion and commitment. We will miss him and I can only hope that his example will inspire others and sustain Rod. I have never worked with a better person. Adieu Eric, Adieu

A candle was lit by Debbie & Bob Koelbel on June 29, 2017 4:01 PM

Message from Arthur DiRocco

It was a rare pleasure in my life to meet a man of such compassion and character as Eric. It may truly be said of him that he was a man whose life made a difference. Thank you for all you gave to those in need.

A candle was lit by Harmony on June 29, 2017 8:07 AM

A candle was lit by Amy on June 29, 2017 7:45 AM

A candle was lit by Colleen Gilliam on June 28, 2017 8:19 PM

A candle was lit by Pam Averill on June 28, 2017 7:58 PM

Message from Lisa and Joe Silva

Michelle, my heart goes out to you and your family. I am so saddened and shocked by his passing. Eric was always so full of life. I was there in the early days at AMHI where you and I worked together in the dietary department and you met Eric. I was so happy for both of you. Eric was a wonderful person and respected supervisor. He always made me laugh. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Joe, my husband knew Eric for only a short time but respected his guidance and direction. He was a down to earth, good person that he would feel comfortable in talking with. Eric always had something positive to say. We will miss him. Condolences to you Michelle and your family.

Message from Andy Wisch

Michele and family,
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. It has been many years since I was fortunate enough to work with Eric at AMHI, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to know him. My best wishes to you all.

Message from John Kootz

In the short time I got to know Eric at Riverview, I was impressed by his warmth, cheerfulness and great attitude. His death is leaving a large hole here. For the family my condolences for your loss and thank you for letting us get to know him.

A candle was lit by Bianca on June 28, 2017 2:56 PM

Message from Richard & Laura Bean

Eric was a wonderful, kind and loving man. We enjoyed the shared memories of our daughter's upbringing. Eric's smile and gentle spirit was a blessing to any person that crossed his path. Please accept out sincere condolences during this time of great loss. Love, The Beans

Expression of Sympathy

A Loving Lilies And Roses Bouquet was ordered on June 28, 2017

Message from Lise Tancrede

Dear Michelle and family,

My deepest sympathy in the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort in the memories you have made with Erik. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lise

Message from Chris Shaw - Yarmouth

Eric was a true gentleman and friend. I knew him through our same passion for Antiques - We would bump into each other in the early morning hours - He always smiled and said hello and asked me how I was doing, he had a TRUE interest in me and my family and how I was doing at work. We both worked in the Public sector and had many things in common. Although our interest in Antiques were in different fields he would always be willing to teach me about his passion for art. I will truly miss seeing and talking to Eric in the early morning hours at the Flea markets here in Maine. Peace Eric, you made a true difference in this word during your stay with us. God Bless....

Message from Derek Pilgrim

So sorry to hear this news today. We had good times growing up in the north end of Bath. I didn't know Eric as a father or an administrator but I'm sure he was great. The Eric I knew could run a quarter mile in under a minute or throw out anyone trying to steal second. He was solid. He was a good friend. My sympathies to Eric's family.

Message from Ann Marie Barter

To Michele and Eric's family ~

"What's the good word?"

When I heard this sad and unexpected news, I thought to myself, there are no good words today. But when I think of Eric, there are so many...like others, I knew him through work and feel so very fortunate to have had that experience. For Eric, here's the good word today:

~ you were always a righter of wrongs. We need more like you in this world to speak with courage and call others out with respect and integrity to make things as they should be.
~ you always put family first. And never apologized for it. I don't recall a single conversation with you where you didn't mention your wife or kids as you beamed with pride, gratitude, and pointing to their photos if we were in your office.
~ you always cared about others. The first time I met you was at my interview at LC. Your opening words were that you wanted me to feel comfortable so I could do my best. You said that it was "on us" if you didn't give me an opportunity to want to work there. What a gift - I continue to borrow that phrase when I interview candidates.
~ you always cared about kids. yours. staff members'. LC residents. You walked the walk when it came to doing what's best for them.
~ Beyond being fun and funny, you valued humor. In the dozens of letters of recommendations I've had written for me in 30 years, yours is the only one that mentions my sense of humor and being fun to work with as assets. I'm glad I had the opportunity to thank you for that.
~ and always good food...we shared many recommendations and discussions of restaurants. Yes, I KNOW Michele is a great cook and you preferred eating anything she cooked to going out, but your exquisite taste in fine dining introduced me to some cool places and I will continue to think of you whenever I go there.

Rest easy, you deserve it.

Message from Ann LeBlanc

Eric was our "go-to" guy when the State Forensic Service had a question about what was happening with a forensic patient. He was so down-to-earth, practical, and SO funny! You could count on him to get things done, to explain what had to be done, or to ask for a hand with an impending problem. This loss has taken our breath away. The world is just not the same without Eric.

Message from Cassie Grantham

I often find that words are hard to come by when something like this happens to a friend or colleague. Your gut hurts, your heart is heavy and your empathy meter is on overdrive. I am so very sorry for your loss, Gilliam Family. The love that Michele expressed for Eric in conversations I had with her shined a light on his loving and fun spirit. This picture makes me smile - the joy and laughter are palpable. Love, Cassie

Message from Marilyn & Al Strout

Was stunned to read Eric's obit this morning. We had a lovely chat in Oct of 2016 outside Reny's in Topsham just prior to us leaving for Florida. We talked about retirement, our kids. Eric always was a joy to talk to, always remembered our girls. He had so much love for life, he just always shined. Hugs to all

A candle was lit by Russell Peaslee on June 27, 2017 8:22 AM

A candle was lit by Donna B. on June 27, 2017 8:13 AM

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Wishing you all peace to bring, comfort and courage to face the days and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. He was a great man who always had a kind word to share. May God bless you all in this most difficult time.

Message from Ken, Michelle, Ian and Zoey Kopf

Anne and all the Gilliam family,

We are truly saddened by the loss of Eric. We wish for all of you to be comforted by the memory of his joyful walk through life. We will always remember a long and wonderful day spent getting to know him in New York City through food, thoughtful conversation, and joy at the coming wedding of Anne and Steve. He was such a wonderful and welcoming soul, and our family is better for his presence. We remember his generosity and humor when Ian was born, and the Red Sox wear he sent us to celebrate. We remember his overwhelmed excitement at the births of Owen and Charlie, how lucky they are to have had such a wonderful "Ampa." He celebrated their growth and milestones as only an Ampa can. We can truly say that he enriched all our lives and we will fondly recall and be comforted by his memory. May he rest in peace, and may you all be embraced by the warm memory of his loving heart. With Sincere condolences, Ken, Michelle, Ian, and Zoey.

Message from Julia Cabral

To Eric's family,
I was so saddened at the news of his passing. This is such a shattering loss for you all and the journey ahead of you is full of twists and turns. I hope you find comfort in knowing how loved and respected he was. I worked with him at Lcydc and appreciated his integrity, sense of humor and open mind. My thoughts and prayers are with you for peace and healing.
Julia Cabral

Message from Bianca

Words cannot described how deeply saddened I am by this loss, Eric was a wonderful person, and a great co-worker, always friendly and upbeat. He will be missed

Message from Susan Porter

I am beyond sad to hear that Eric is gone.He was our honorary CHICK and I loved him.I am so sorry for your loss Michelle and family.He was truly a wonderful man who welcomed me into his home many many times we shared so many wonderful times at the house on dessert road

A candle was lit by Susan Porter on June 26, 2017 7:35 PM

Message from Martha Ridge

Wonderful words and great picture - makes you smile! So very sorry to you all for your loss, especially you Michele. Thoughts, prayers and hugs with you during this very difficult time.

Message from BL Qualls

To family and friends,

I am very sorry to hear of the death of your loved one.

When Jesus was on earth, his friend Lazarus died.
He was in the tomb for 4 days already when Jesus arrived.
Mary and Martha, Lazarus' sisters were grieving and Jesus gave way
to tears. Jesus compared death to sleep. He called to Lazarus and he
came back to life! You can read this wonderful true account in the Bible
at John chapter 11. Jesus demonstrated what he will do for mankind
when his kingdom government is ruling over all the earth. (Matthew 10:6)
Our dead loved ones will come back to life! (Acts 24:15)
At that time there will be no more pain or death (Revelation 21:3,4.)
If you would like free Bible studies, to bring you comfort, please go to the
bottom of the home page of jw.org to request one.

Message from Anthony Massarelli

Dear Michele,

I am so sorry for loos. May you all find comfort and consolation during this difficult time.

With Regards,

Anthony

A candle was lit by Anthony Massarelli on June 26, 2017 3:51 PM

Message from Russ Gauvin

Those of us at Capitol Police only got to work with Eric for a short while since he came to Riverview to help out. He was a pleasure to work with and will be missed. Our sincere condolences to all of Eric's family and friends.

Message from Kelly Williams

Michele & Family,

My deepest sympathy for your loss. May beautiful memories bring you comfort and peace.

Kelly

Message from Sprague Simonds

Michele and Family,

I was just informed me of the very sad news of Eric's passing. I can't possibly imagine what you two are going through, but I want to express my deepest condolences to you all. I just adored Eric. I worked with Eric at LCYDC. His door was always open to me, or shut if I needed it. He had an infectious sense of humor and I often found myself in his office at the end of the day laughing until tears were coming from my eyes and my belly hurt. The picture posted here is how I will remember him. He was a passionate art enthusiast and collector as you know, something we shared deeply and discussed often. Eric was an enormously influential and seminal mentor in my professional life and growth. more importantly, he was a dear friend. My most heartfelt sympathies go to you all at this difficult time.

Most sincerely,

Sprague

A candle was lit by Sprague Simonds on June 26, 2017 1:52 PM

A candle was lit by Christine Sullivan on June 26, 2017 12:38 PM

Message from Jeff and Lynn Peterson

Our sympathy to Eric's family and friends.

Message from Bennett Family

Eric we will all miss you so much. I'll miss our passionate conversations about special education and support services as you always supported my role as a special educator. As a friend of yours said Saturday, "you're getting one of the best seats up there."

A candle was lit by Beth Wilcox on June 26, 2017 11:04 AM

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Michelle, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Beth

Message from Kennebunk

I am sorry to hear of Erics' passing. He was a great guy- always pleasant and thoughtful. We will miss him at the art shows and at Arundel.