Gillis, Anthony Gerald "Jerry", 53, of Little Judique, passed away peacefully in Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with his mother, Muriel, and sister, Louise, by his side.
Jerry was born in Antigonish on July 11, 1972, to proud parents, Muriel and the late Anthony "Tony" Gillis. Over the years, Jerry was employed with the Labourers Union Local 92 which took him out west to Fort McMurray. When he returned home, he worked seasonally as a driver with Cabot Links. In both positions, Jerry made a wealth of friends and was most happy serving as a chauffeur for anyone and everyone sharing good stories along the way. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone at a moment’s notice.
Jerry also worked in the fishing industry with the Ceilidh Co-Op and the Big John’s. Arriving at the wharf before anyone else, he was always eager to throw the first trap even though he was prone to seasickness.
Jerry had a passion for horse racing and enjoyed a bit of wagering on the side and trying his luck with lottery tickets. He and Muriel looked forward to their annual trip to Old Home Week in Charlottetown, with a stop to their “trip advisor”, DFer Beaton, for consultation and questionable racing tips. Jerry was always in attendance at his cousin’s hockey games proudly cheering them on. He also enjoyed card playing and attended card games and tournaments whenever he had the chance.
Jerry was a devoted son, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin. A special thanks to all of Jerry’s good friends for being there in the good times and the hardest of days, especially Jonathan MacDonald and Hughie MacDonald for your continual support.
Jerry was clannish and never missed a family function where he always showed up stylish in a brand name label.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his mother, Muriel Gillis; sister, Louise Gillis; nephews, Charles Tiller and Jack Tiller; aunts and uncles, Mary (Donald R.) Gillis, Cecilia (Joe) MacEachen, Aurea Gillis, Bernie Gillis, Robert (Diane) Gillis, Marjorie Gillis, Danny (Kelly) Gillis, Sandy Gillis, Gord (Will) Gillis, Catherine Gillis, Stephen (Deanna) Gillis; Mike (Mary) Gillis; Veronica Gillis; Rita MacLellan, Thelma Gillis; numerous cousins and family members in Judique and Margaree; and large circle of friends. He was predeceased by his father, Anthony; maternal grandparents, Jessie and Romie Gillis; paternal grandparents, Duncan and Agnes Gillis; aunts and uncles, Ann Marie (James) McAdam, Peggy (George) Hurley, Jessie (Willie) MacDougall, John Gillis and Richie (Donelda) Gillis, Johnny MacLellan, Johnny Gillis.
Jerry did not complain once during his illness and fought it with strength, determination, dignity; and concern for everyone else. The family would like to extend sincere thanks to all those involved in Jerry’s care, the staff at Inverness Consolidated Memorial Hospital, Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Victoria General Hospital, in particular the Transplant Team at the Victoria General Hospital, Dr. Bernie MacLean, Dr. Suzie Egar, Dr. John Ritter, and Lori Ann MacDonald who provided him with loving care and comfort. Special thanks to his cousin, Alice (Gillis) MacKay, for being at the family’s side and for her calming and caring presence and quiet reassurance to Jerry, Muriel and Louise during his illness.
Visitation will be held in Port Hood and Area Resting Place, Port Hood on Thursday, March 5, 2026, 3:00 - 7:00 pm., with Funeral Mass in St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, Judique on Friday, March 6, 2026, 11:00 a.m., with Father Allan MacMillan officiating.
Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
As Jerry was given the gift of life twice, please consider organ donation.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
