Reita Joyce Gilleland

Reita Gilleland, 85, passed away peacefully at her home in Silver City on February 7, 2016 after many years of extended illness. Reita was the former owner of two popular Cumming Restaurants: The Lanier Restaurant from 1964-1973, and also The Appalachian Restaurant from 1973-1988 where she met and enjoyed many life-long friends. Reita was a well-known artist in the community who excelled at painting birds, flowers, barn scenes and popular places and homes in Forsyth County. She was a life-long member of Concord Baptist Church, an example of Faith, and a pillar of strength for her family. Reita is survived by her husband of 56 years, J.C. Gilleland; her brother, Bennie Cowdrey; son, Mickey Britain; grandsons Brandon Britain and Cody Britain, and also one granddaughter Brandi Britain. She is also survived by her sister-in-laws, Ineal Milford, Mazel Evans, and Bobbie Howard and her husband J.W. Howard. Ms. Reita has many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well. Reita is preceded in death by her father, Joseph Dale "Shorty" Cowdrey; mother, Thelma Louise Cowdrey and sister-in-laws Jeanne Marie Cowdrey, Ruby Nelson, and Voncil Gravitt. The family of Reita Gilleland would like to extend tremendous gratitude to several special "angels" who have cared for her for a very long time: grandson Brandon Britain, wonderful neighbors and friends Lori and Greg Cloud; caregivers, Andrea Mercado, Sheila Gove, Susie Hazellaker, and others from Stay at Home and also Homestead Hospice. Ingram Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements and visitation for Reita Gilleland will be held on Monday February 8, 2016 from 4:00-9:00PM. Her funeral will be held at Concord Baptist Church on Tuesday February 9, 2016 at 3:00PM. Pastor Scott Gilbert and Pastor Rubin Smith will be officiating and Brandon Britain will be speaking. Ms. Reita will be laid to rest at Sawnee View Gardens following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family of Reita Gilleland would ask that you please consider making a donation in her honor to the Concord Baptist Church Building Fund. Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory, Cumming, Georgia is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at www.ingramfuneralhome.com. Visitation DetailsMonday, February 8th, 2016, 4:00pm - 9:00pm, Ingram Funeral Home Service DetailsTuesday, February 9th, 2016, 3:00pm, Concord Baptist Church Interment DetailsSawnee View Gardens