Tippah / Benton Counties – Raymond "Ray" Daniel Gaillard, 61, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 22, 2020, at Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo.
Mr. Gaillard was born on April 8, 1959, to Raymond "Bud" L. Gaillard and Shirley Daniel Gaillard McClain. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Mississippi State University in Construction Engineering Technology in 1982.
After working several years in Construction Management, he, with the help of a much respected Advisory Committee, developed a Construction Engineering Technology Program at Northeast Mississippi Community College. Their goal was not only to produce students that were excellent in their field, but to develop strong character and integrity. During his nineteen years at Northeast Mississippi Community College, Mr. Gaillard received numerous awards and grants which bettered the students he served.
Mr. Gaillard enjoyed music, driving across the country and the challenge of completing almost any project, both personal and professional.
Mr. Gaillard is survived by his mother, Shirley Gaillard McClain and her husband, Lamon McClain of Ripley; his wife of 30 years, Vicki Butler Gaillard of Ashland, one daughter, Regan Gaillard Rutledge and husband William Rutledge of Memphis, TN and one brother, Randy Gaillard of Ripley.
He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond "Bud" Gaillard.
Due to Covid-19 concerns, a private memorial service for the immediate family will be held in the Memory Chapel of The Ripley Funeral Home.
The family request that memorials be directed to The Regional Rehabilitation Center, 615 Pegram Drive, Tupelo, MS 38801.
