Dr. Gilliam grew up in Burlington, NC. He attended Appalachian State University for his undergraduate degree, and then went to Pennsylvania College of Optometry where he earned his professional degree. Dr. Gilliam began his private practice in 1982, and has been in Archdale since 1983. In 2003 he took over an existing practice in Asheboro, adding a full time associate in 2004. Since then, his practice has grown to include three full-service offices in the Triad.

Dr. Gilliam married Lisa Herndon of High Point in 1985, and they live with their two children (both soccer enthusiasts) in Willow Creek.