Olen was born September 10, 1941 in Cooper, TX to Emmett and Lois Gillean. He married Elaine Majors on October 22, 1985 in Greenville, TX. Olen served in the U.S. Army Reserves for six years before working at the Hopkins and Rains County Sheriff Departments as deputy sheriff and constable, where he met his best friend and patrol partner Jerry Stevens. He then worked as a security officer at Raytheon for 18 years until he retired. Olen also served as elder of the Bull Creek Cowboy Church in Lone Oak, TX for four years. He loved traveling, being outdoors, animals, operating his dairy farm and chasing cows.
Olen is survived by his wife Elaine Gillean of Greenville, TX; son Shane Gillean; son Andrew Combs and wife Carol from Royse City, TX; daughter Angela Russell and husband Chuck of Atlanta, GA; grandchild April Sullivan and husband Michael of Conroe, TX; grandchild Alan Combs and wife Ashby of Houston, TX; two precious great granddaughters and sister Regene Baker of Madisonville, TX.
He is preceded in death by his parents Emmett and Lois Gillean and son Shad Gillean.
Pallbearers will be Alan Combs, Michael Sullivan, Paul Harris, Butch Samples, Ricky Cockrum, Justin Mayer and Dale White (honorary).
While flowers are appreciated, the family also welcomes donations to leukemia research foundations made in Olen's name.
Condolences(5)
Gary Gillean
Dallas, TX Thursday, August 10, 2023 So sorry to hear of my cousin Olen's passing. As a child I visited the uncle's and cousins with my dad, Marley. Often stayed with Olen's family always a good time for me. He was always with a smile and made everyone feel good. I will greatly miss him.Jennifer
Garland, TX Wednesday, August 9, 2023 Uncle Olen always had a smile and a big hug ready whenever we saw him. He will always be remembered as a strong yet gentle man and a wonderful uncle.Bill and I, Meagan, Tara, and all of the rest of our family send our love and condolences.
Helen Stevens
Greey, TX Wednesday, August 9, 2023 My heart is broken over Olen's passing. So thankful for the wonderful memories I have of all the years of our friendship and travels. I love you Elaine. You are in my prayers.Aden Boyer
Austin, TX Wednesday, August 9, 2023 My condolences and prayers to Elaine and the rest of the Gillean family, Olen was a kind man who always knew how to cheer others up, he will be deeply missed.Mary and Donnie Hornback
Scottsville, KY Wednesday, August 9, 2023 We are so sorry for your loss and sending lots of love and prayers!