Robert D. Golliday was born in Mount Bayou, Mississippi on January 31, 1931. As a young boy, Robert was diagnosed with Polio. He soon recovered and his family relocated to Brooklyn, Illinois, where he attended school and later moved to East St. Louis where he continued his studies in the East St. Louis School District. He was the only child to the union of Douglas and Orlinda (Hunter) Golliday.

In spite of his disability, he began work at General Steel as a laborer and due to his exceptional work ethics, he became the lead crane operator. His tenure was only 25 years, due to the closure of the company. At that time, he was a displaced employee and became a self employed entrepreneur working on cars and small engines. He furthered his employment with Amax Zinc Company where he continued until his retirement. In addition to all his other gifts, Robert built a small conglomerate of rental properties of which he managed and maintained through hard work and blessings.

Robert was a devoted member of Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, for over 50 years serving as a Missionary. His ministries included working in the church pantry, disbursing food to the needy and serving hot meals. He also was a van driver for the Seniors and escorted them on several trips to Hot Springs, Arkansas for an annual outing. He was the primary cook and caretaker for this event and others such as the church anniversary and annual church picnic. Robert also enjoyed working at Shiloh A.M.E. Church where his wife has been a life long member, "in fact due to his loyalty to his faith, many people thought he was a honorary member of Shiloh A.M.E because of his works there.

Robert D. Golliday leaves to cherish his life, love, and legacy his devoted wife of 66 years, Delore (Hurst) Golliday; five children, Cassandra (Golliday) Watson, Sharon (Golliday) Hudson, who preceded him in death, Douglas D. Golliday, Zana (Golliday) (Jimmy) Monk and Robin (Golliday) (Thomas Sanders all of Centreville, Illinois; a host of loving grandchildren, great grandchildren, a loving aunt, Nettie Lee Web of Detroit, Michigan and a host of cousins.