Neil H. Gillis, 86, of Ellerslie, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM in the Chapel at Striffler Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 with a visitation one hour prior.
Neil was born on May 16, 1939, to Rose and Walter Gillis Jr. in Columbus, Georgia. He graduated Baker High School Class of 57 and went on to serving our country in the United States Navy. After the military he worked as a Civil Engineer with the State Highway Department and also a Volunteer Firefighter with the Fire Department in Ellerslie, Georgia. Neil was a member of different organizations throughout the community including being a Mason, a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, and a follower of Christ at Living Grace Church.
He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Dianne Gillis; his children, Debra Mitchell (Rick) and Andrea Cochran (Mitch); his grandchildren, Chris Gillis (Rosaria), Ashtyn Hutchins (Stephan), Wade Wilson (Jordan), Gillis Davis (Nathan), Patrice Willingham (Josh), and Tyndal Mitchell along with several great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Rose Gillis and his brother, Scott Gillis.