Harry Joseph Gillingham, 94, of Ashburn, Virginia went home to be with his Lord Jesus on Friday, November 15, 2013. He fought a good fight, he finished his course, he kept the faith, and those who knew him are confident there is a crown of righteousness laid up for him.

Harry was born on March 22, 1919, to Irish immigrants Charles Stanley and Katie Marie (Grady) Gillingham in Covelo, California. He attended USC to pursue a degree in music. While in college, he was drafted and served his country during World War II. Later he was called on to serve in the Korean War as a lieutenant in army intelligence. He graduated from the army language school where he learned to read and write Chinese, which he practiced almost daily for the next 60 plus years.
After the war, he became a professional musician and played at many venues in Palm Springs, California, and he was privileged to play for one of Frank Sinatra's bands. He was a gifted pianist and played daily. The last time he played was three weeks before his passing.

Later in life, he pursued a real estate career, where he met his wife Meda. After both being widowed for many years, they married in 1996 and then moved to Virginia in 2000 to be with his wife's family. He never had any children of his own. His wife Meda's family embraced him and they became part of his life. He is survived by his wife Meda, daughters Lillian DelSignore and Mozelle Meyers, his son in law, Tony DelSignore, Tony and Lillian's sons, and many beloved friends from his church family.

First lieutenant Harry J. Gillingham will be honored at a graveside ceremony on Tuesday, November 26, 2013, starting at 1:00 pm at Quantico National Cemetary, Triangle., Virginia.