David Mark Gillis

Dateline: Raeford David Mark Gillis, recently retired Southern States fertilizer plant manager in Lumberton, NC, died in Wake Forest Baptist Hospital with infection from a rare mosquito borne virus, eastern equine encephalitis. He was 61. A graduate of NC State with an A.A. in agriculture, Mark was a life long member of Antioch Presbyterian Church where he served as clerk of Session, sang in the choir, and participated in all activities related to care of its people, property and outreach. His community activism included Habitat for Humanity, Relay for Life, Raeford Turkey Festival and any cause addressing the needs of others. He lived without attachment to things and with loving compassion for people, animals and nature, especially his flowers. His generosity had no limit for family, friends, strangers, and stray animals. Mark invested in people giving of himself in the tradition of St. Francis of Assisi walking the path Jesus walked. He is survived by his fianc and loving partner of 27 years, Sheila Salinas, her children, David Salinas, Donna & Steve Everett, beloved grand daughters Jordan and Christina Everett and his much loved pets: Rusty and Harley. Sisters Vicky Sawyer (Jerry), Rita Gillis (Jeff Pierce), nieces Emily Kegerreis, (David), Rebecca Queral (Andrew), Leah Pierce, and grand nieces Hana and Clara Kegerreis. Visitation with the family will be Thursday, September 17h, 7:00 until 9:00 pm at Crumpler Funeral Home, Raeford, NC. A celebration of life will be Friday, September 18th at 1 pm at Antioch Presbyterian Church, 6583 Red Springs Road, Red Springs, NC 28377. In lieu of flowers contribute to his legacy of service with support to: Antioch Presbyterian Church, Red Springs, NC Raeford/Hoke Habitat for Humanity, Raeford, NC SECU Family House in Winston Salem, NC