Kelly Dawn Gilliland

Kelly Dawn Gilliland, 65, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Jane Phillips Hospital, surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Kelly was born on June 16, 1961, in Waukegan, Illinois, to John and Sue (Weaver) Gilliland. She grew up in Dewey, Oklahoma, graduating from Dewey High School in 1979. She built a successful career in banking and later as a mortgage lender in the Bartlesville area. Beyond her career, Kelly devoted countless hours to serving her community through local boards, organizations, and volunteer work. She believed in showing up for others, and she did so with a generous heart that touched countless lives. Kelly loved books and magazines, sunbathing, watching Dateline, taking scenic drives with the top down, and spending nearly every weekend participating in races and marathons. At her final race, two fellow runners paused their own race to help Kelly cross the finish line beside them—a moment that perfectly reflected the kindness she inspired in others. Kelly's greatest joy was her family. Whether she was spending time with her siblings, encouraging her nieces and nephews, or celebrating the newest generation of great-nieces and great-nephews, she made each person feel important and deeply loved. Family gatherings were always brighter because Kelly was there. Kelly is survived by her sisters, Debbie Gilliland of Tulsa, Joni (Jimmy) Javellas of Dewey and Brandy Gilliland of Bartlesville and her brother, John (Darla) Gilliland of South Carolina. She is also survived by nieces and nephews Amanda Gilliland, Levi and Lucy Lyda, Jade, Jenni and Jessi Javellas and Jack (Chelsea) Gilliland as well as several great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and many dear friends. Kelly was preceded in her death by her mother Donna Sue Gilliland (Weaver) in November 2011 and her father John Gilliland in October 2022. As well as her grandparents Carl and Bernice Gilliland and Norman and Virginia Weaver and a great nephew, Zander Lyda. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many friends who faithfully visited Kelly throughout her illness, especially Carol Cleveland, Patty Doshier, Randy Herren, John Hamlin, and Rocky Fink. Your friendship, love, and presence brought her comfort and meant more than words can express. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Journey Home in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

Kelly Dawn Gilliland

June 16, 1961 - August 1, 2026