Steve Gillian

Steve Raymond Gillian, 83, of Chandler, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Born February 1, 1943, to John Gillian and Leota Lillibridge-Gillian, Steve’s life was defined by the love of his family and a lifelong dedication to education and music.

From early childhood, Steve and his brother, Russell, pursued music together as the Gillian Brothers. They began performing as children, playing for square dances and swing dances in local community halls throughout the region and forging a musical partnership that would span decades.

A 1961 graduate of Chandler High School, Steve earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Central Oklahoma. He dedicated 29 years of his career to Luther Public Schools as the Band Director, where he shaped generations of young musicians through marching band and string classes.  He was a consummate teacher for whom every interaction became a natural teaching moment and passing that wisdom to the next generation was second nature. Steve was deeply loved by his students, many of whom became lifelong friends. His musical legacy lives on through the many students he taught.

Steve was an Oklahoma and Kentucky State Fiddle Champion and earned numerous titles throughout his career. As adults, the Gillian Brothers became a formidable contest duo, with Steve competing on the fiddle and Russell providing the guitar accompaniment. They released three albums and traveled across the country, winning at the highest levels of competition.

In his later years, Steve founded the Luck of the Draw band, playing Top 40 country. Although the fiddle remained his primary instrument, he enjoyed singing while playing the guitar or keyboard. Known for his humility and quiet expertise, he remained a dedicated musician and teacher to the very end.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, John and Leota Gillian. Survivors include his wife Linda Gillian of the home; daughter, Amy Gillian-Fanning & husband Todd, and son, Joseph Ryan Gillian; brother & sister-in-Law, Russell & Clydena Gillian; grandson, Ryan Carter Fanning; former wife, Beverly Gillian-Taylor.

A viewing & luncheon will be held at Noon followed by a celebration of Steve’s life at 2:00 pm Thursday, March 5, 2026, at First Christian Church of Chandler.

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