Tollie Juanita Gillard

Tollie Juanita Gillard, 87, of Westlake, Louisiana, passed peacefully into eternal life on October 1, 2025. Tollie was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a cherished Mawmaw, who left this world surrounded by the same love she so freely gave throughout her life. She was married to her husband, Bobby Gene Gillard Sr., for 65 wonderful years. She worked for many years at the Lake Charles Racquet Club, where she never met a stranger and was known for her warmth and kindness. She loved flowers and the simple beauty they brought into her life, and she had a deep appreciation for country music. Most of all, Tollie cherished time with her family-especially her grandchildren. Nothing brought her more joy than their presence, and her eyes would light up whenever they entered the room.

With a gentle spirit, she was always there when you needed her, never asking for much in return but giving more than anyone ever expected. She was a woman who loved deeply and lived simply-happiest with her family close by. Tollie leaves behind a family and many friends who will miss her more than words can say, but who are better for having known her, learned from her, and been loved by her. We will hold onto her memory, and all the things she taught us.

She is survived by her son, Bobby Gillard Jr. (Sandra); siblings, Virginia McBroom, Lorine Moses, Loretta Starkey, and Dianne Duggan; grandchildren Kevin Reeves (Jessica), Angela Abitbol (Dave), Dawn Weiss (Randy), Summer Rice (Eric), and Haley Young (Blaine); and nine great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Gene Gillard Sr.; her daughter, Felicia Ann Smith; and her great-granddaughter, Mirabelle Reeves.

A Catholic funeral service, officiated by Father Ronald Foshage, M.S., will be held at Johnson Funeral Home of Moss Bluff, Louisiana, on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM, honoring the life of Tollie Gillard. Pastor Marshal Baggett will assist in officiating as well as leading music both during the service and the graveside. Visitation will also take place at Johnson Funeral Home of Moss Bluff on Monday October 6, 2025 from 5:00pm – 8:00 PM, with a rosary at 6:00 PM. Visitation will continue Tuesday at 9:00 AM before the funeral. She will be laid to rest at Whittaker Cemetery in DeRidder, Louisiana at 1:00 PM.