Holly MatkinChatham County, GA – Chatham County Police Department (CCPD) Sergeant Jacob “Jake” Gililland died on May 26 after a two-year battle against brain cancer.
The 29-year-old sergeant succumbed to Glioblastoma with his wife, daughter, and mother-in-law by his side, according to his obituary.
The CCPD confirmed Sgt. Gililland’s death in a press release later that day.
“It is with deep sadness that the Chatham County Police Department announces the death of Sergeant Jacob Gililland after a courageous battle with brain cancer,” the department said. “Sergeant Gililland died this morning, surrounded by his family.”
The police department noted that Sgt. Gililland spent “his entire adult life in the service of others.”
He joined the U.S. Army on July 4, 2012, where he spent four years.
Sgt. Gililland joined the Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department (SCMPD) in September of 2016, and later hired on at the CCPD in July of 2019.
He patrolled the east side of Chatham County before later transferring to the Training Division.
Sgt. Gililland was also a member of the agency’s SWAT team, according to his obituary.
“Not only was Sergeant Gililland a valuable member of our department, but he was a beloved one,” the CCPD said. “There are many citizens and fellow officers who have wonderful stories and memories of the time he spent with them.”
Sgt. Gililland leaves behind his wife, Melissa, and his daughter, Kinsley, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his parents, brothers, nephews, nieces, and his in-laws.
“We ask that you take a moment today to think of Sergeant Gililland, and to pray for his wife Melissa, their young daughter, and the family, friends, and brothers and sisters in blue that he left behind,” the CCPD said. “Rest in Peace, Sergeant Gililland. We will take the watch from here.”
Sgt. Gililland was laid to rest on May 29.
We extend our condolences to the Chatham County Police Department for the loss of Sergeant Jacob Gililland. Please keep his family, friends, and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers. pic.twitter.com/u397KJRDjy
— Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office (@GwinnettSO) May 27, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Chatham County Police Department Sergeant Jacob “Jake” Gililland, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
