John L. Gillen "Socker"

John L. Gillen "Socker", 84, formerly of Gum Tree, Highland Township, Coatesville, PA, passed away on Saturday, June 17, 2023, in Oxford, PA.  He was the husband of Elizabeth "Betsy" (Ferguson) Gillen for over 42 years.  Born in Coatesville, he was the son of the late George M. and Muriel Saunders Gillen.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1959 until 1962 as an Aviation Boatswains Mate aboard the USS Lexington.  He was a member of Upper Octorara Presbyterian Church in Parkesburg.

Socker worked in Production Control at the former Lukens Steel Company in Coatesville for 30 years. After retirement, he worked part-time for Hershey Motors in Parkesburg and volunteered at the VA Hospice Unit where "No Veteran Dies Alone".

Besides Betsy, who he loved dearly, he is survived by his children, Ray (Heather) Young, Patti Gillen-Steen (Ray), granddaughter, Raylee Steen, and sister. Linda O'Gata.   Socker  was preceded in death by sons, John D. Gillen and Kevin J. Gillen, brother George M.B. Gillen, sisters Ann Wills and Patricia Montgomery.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. from the Upper Octorara Presbyterian Church, 1121 Octorara Trail, Parkesburg, with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Friendship Methodist Cemetery in Gum Tree, Highland Township.  Memorial donations can be sent to Kacie's Cause at https://kaciescause.org/support-us/ , or mailed to Kacie’s Cause, PO Box 333, Kennett Square, PA 19348.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Wilde Funeral Home of Parkesburg, PA.

Online condolences may be respectfully posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com