Pennsauken grad killed in port accident recalled as 'beautiful person'
Sheri Berkery
PAULSBORO — Kiesha Shields got married four years ago, and her bridal shower theme was "Alice in Wonderland."
In the middle of the party, in walks a guy in a big white rabbit costume, dancing to her favorite Chris Brown song.
The rabbit reveals his true identity, and it's Shields' nephew, Basim Gilliard, a fan of dancing and joking around with his family.
"I was in tears on the floor," Shields recalls. "He surprised me with that."
The story is now a bittersweet memory — one of many that family members are sharing since Gilliard's death Sunday in a workplace accident.
The 26-year-old Pennsauken man was working aboard a cargo ship at the Port of Paulsboro when a forklift with two large steel planks struck him, police said. He died at the scene.
Gilliard was the father of a 3-year-old son, Basim Jr.
A viewing for Gilliard is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday and 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday, followed by services at Boyd Funeral Home in Camden.
Shields said she'll remember her nephew for all the times they danced and had fun together, but she added he also had a serious side when it came to helping others.
"He was a beautiful person. He always had a big heart," she said. "I just found out that when one of his friends and his friend's mom were put out of their house, Basim put them up in a motel for a weekend."
He also was always there for his family, Shields said.
"He loved spending time with his big brother, Arnold," she said.
And Gilliard enjoyed a morning routine with his little son and namesake.
"Every day, he got him up to brush his teeth, dress him and take him to school," Shields said. "He was a devoted father."
The women in his life — including Shields and another aunt, Kiyetta Shields — all took a big role in raising Gilliard.
"His mother and grandmother supported him in anything he wanted to do," Shields said.
His mom remained his biggest fan, on the football fields of Pennsauken High School and youth leagues, and all his other endeavors.
Gilliard's love of dancing also earned him attention — along with the title of talent show winner at his high school. He also was an honor roll student at Pennsauken.
A post on the Pennsauken Football Facebook page sent condolences to Gilliard's family, saying he "brought energy and love to our program like none other. He will be missed."
Sheri Berkery: @SheriBerkery; 856-486-2673; sberkery@gannettnj.com
