John William Gillis

John William Gillis, age 51, of Carrollton, Texas, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, following a sudden brain aneurysm. Though his passing was unexpected, John’s life was a lasting testimony of faith, kindness, and devotion — to God, to his family, and to all who were blessed to know him.

Born on February 15, 1974, in Longview, Texas, John was the middle of three sons born to Judy Fears Gillis and David Marion Gillis.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy; his mother, Judy; his brothers, Jeff and wife Peggy Sue and Jason and wife Sheri; uncles John Gillis, Sr., Melvin Gillis and Jimmy Fears (wife Barbara) and aunt Patricia Jetkiewicz; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and a host of friends who cherished him.

He was preceded in death by his father, David, and by his uncle, Tom, earlier this year.

John graduated from Kilgore High School in 1993 and continued his education at Kilgore College and Stephen F. Austin State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. He also attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, deepening his knowledge of ministry and his commitment to serving others.

Throughout his life, John used his gifts to make a difference in many places. He served at Fellowship Church, Grapevine, as a digital editor in the children’s ministry, and later at First Baptist Church, Flower Mound, as children’s minister. He did tech support at Apple, Inc., and most recently taught at R.L. Turner High School in Carrollton, Texas.

John grew up with a love for people and a quiet, servant’s heart. He was known by friends and family as a gentle, steady, and deeply faithful man who lived out his beliefs every day. He loved his wife, Cindy, with all his heart, and their marriage was a shining example of grace, teamwork, and unwavering love.

A devoted member of First Baptist Church at The Fields, John had a great heart for worship and followed his calling to serve as part of the worship tech team. He never sought recognition — his reward was simply knowing his faithful service helped others draw closer to Christ. His calm presence, warm smile, and willing spirit will be deeply missed by his church family.

As a young man, John loved woodworking, following in his father’s footsteps. As he grew older, his fascination with technology became both a profession and a passion. Most recently, he began sharing his faith and reflections through his blog, www.hiseffect.net.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church at The Fields, 1401 Carrollton Parkway, Carrollton, Texas 75010, with Dr. Brent Taylor officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Worship Arts Ministry at First Baptist Church at The Fields in memory of John Gillis.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16