Leroy Gillikin

Leroy Gillikin, 91, of Otway, passed from this life on Monday, December 24, 2018.

A graveside funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 28, 2018, at the Warren Gillikin Family Cemetery in Otway, NC.  The service will be officiated by the Rev. Jack Mumford of the Otway Christian Church. The cemetery is located directly across the street from the Otway Christian Church on Gillikin Road in Otway, NC.

He was born the oldest child of Alton Gillikin and Lucy Gillikin on July 18, 1927, in the community of Otway where he went on to live most of his life.  He was always a kind and generous person who was adored by all who knew him.

Leroy served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  It was in Korea that he was wounded during the defense of Hagaru-Ri and received a Purple Heart for his injuries.  After being honorably discharged from the Army at the rank of 1st Sergeant he returned to Otway and later he moved to Raleigh where he began working at the Sir Walter Hotel.  This began a nearly four-decade career in the hotel and motel industry. He later became the manager of the Seahawk Motor Lodge at Atlantic Beach and spent nearly 40 years there.  Leroy became the reason people returned there year after year to vacation. He watched several generations come as children and then later bring their children because of the great memories he helped create.

Leroy is survived by his sister, Veta Gillikin of Otway.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, William “Fred” Gillikin; and his sister-in-law, Fannie Lewis Gillikin.  He also leaves behind many loving cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial gift to either Martha’s Mission Cupboard at 901 Bay St, Morehead City, NC 28557 Morehead City, NC or your local chapter of the Salvation Army or A.S.P.C.A.

Online condolences may be made at www.mundenfuneralhome.net

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home and Crematory in Morehead City, NC.