Obituary of James McDowell Gilland

James M. Gilland, Jr. passed away peacefully on March 5th surrounded by loving family. A long-time resident of Haddon Heights, NJ, he had recently celebrated his 99th birthday. For all that knew him over the years, it would be agreed, a finer gentleman could not be found. He was the third generation of his family to attend Lafayette College in Easton, PA (Theta Delta Chi) and remained a loyal alumnus up to his death. In addition to a long career in the insurance industry, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. His commitment to community was defined by years of service at the municipal government level in Haddon Heights as well as having served as a long-standing Board member of the Haddon Savings Bank. He had also been an active member of American Legion Post #149 (Past Commander), Haddon Heights Rotary (Past President), Masonic Lodge #191, Haddon Heights Presbyterian Church (Elder) and Haddon Heights Lutheran Church (Council). His quiet enjoyment of life included family, gardening, golf (Little Mill CC and Woodbury CC) and a long-suffering commitment to Philadelphia sports teams. He was pre-deceased by beloved spouses Margaret (Long), his wife of 52 years, and Eleanor (Cramer) to whom he was married for 11 years. Survivors include daughters Elizabeth (James) Daniels of Port Republic, NJ and Susan (David) Smith of Haddonfield, NJ as well as his son James (Marianne) Gilland of Pelham Manor, NY. “Pop” will also be greatly missed by his numerous grand and great-grandchildren scattered across the country in addition to many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A memorial service will be held at a later date and, in lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made in Jim’s name to a favorite charity. For more information or to e-mail a condolence, please visit www.lpwoosterfuneralhome.com.