Former WVU lineman dies at 29
CARLISLE, Pa. (AP) – Rick Gilliam, a former standout offensive lineman at West Virginia University, died Wednesday at his home. He was 29. Gilliam appeared to have suffered a heart attack, his mother-in-law, Gretchen Naugle, said Friday.
“He was pleasant to everybody – got along, very friendly. Just a gentle giant, a great son-in-law, and the love of my daughter’s life,” Naugle said.
Gilliam worked as a security officer for the Cumberland County government, based in Carlisle.
Deputy coroner Todd Eckenrode confirmed the death but provided no other information. An autopsy was conducted Friday.
After college, Gilliam had brief stints with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League and the Indiana Firebirds of the Arena Football League, Naugle said.
He is survived by his wife, Kendra, and their 9-month daughter, Mya.