Gaylord Gillard, 83, passed away on August 21, 2026, in Kennewick, Washington.

Born on March 9, 1943, in Cedar City, Utah, Gaylord lived a life centered on work, family, and time spent outdoors with those he loved. He was devoted to his wife, Peggy Gillard, and to his children, and he took deep pride in their lives and accomplishments. He enjoyed sharing stories about his sons and grandchildren with friends and relatives, and that pride stood as one of the truest expressions of how much they meant to him.

His love for Peggy was a defining part of his life. They shared 51 years of marriage, and he remained deeply devoted to her throughout those years. He was equally dedicated to his children and took special joy in the growth and pursuits of his grandchildren. For Gaylord, family was never a side note — it was the center of his life.

Gaylord worked at the JCPenney store in Kennewick for 35 years in furniture delivery and the warehouse. His long career reflected steady service and commitment, and he was known for his dependable work over more than three decades. His connection to the Kennewick store became an important part of his life, and he was remembered fondly by those he worked alongside.

Outside of work, Gaylord most enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He loved camping and evenings around the campfire, and he found joy in fishing and crabbing at the Oregon coast with his family and his best friends, Ed and Delana Coles. Those trips and gatherings were among the experiences he cherished most, bringing together the people and pastimes that mattered greatly to him.

Gaylord is survived by his wife, Peggy Gillard; his sons, Ryan Gillard and his wife, Kim, Jason Gillard and his wife, Gaylyn, and Sean McIntire and his wife, Rita; his brother, Rick Gillard and his wife, Tanya; his sisters, Renee Flansburg and Babette Gillard; and his grandchildren, Dylan Gillard, Landon Gillard, Madalyn Gillard, Kendra McIntire-Joosten, and Conner McIntire.

He was preceded in death by his son, Troy McIntire; his grandson, Pierce McIntire; his mother, Maxine Gillard; his father, Lyle Gillard; his best friend, Ed Coles; and several nephews.

Gaylord will be remembered for his love of family, the pride he took in his children and grandchildren, and the joy he found in the outdoors. His life was shaped by the people he cherished, especially his wife, Peggy, and his memory will remain with all who knew and loved him.