Donna Elaine Fulford Gillis
August 2, 1958-November 21, 2017

Elaine Gillis’ passing on Tuesday, November 21, marked almost two years of physical suffering but also stands as a signpost of a life lived well as a daughter of the Lord of Lords. One acquaintance commented that she wrote her own obituary by the faithful life she lived as she faced one of the most-feared diseases. She died at her Milton home in the early morning hours at the age of 59. Her strong testimony of salvation and contentment in Jesus Christ became a powerhouse of fierceness, trust, and obedience in the 17 months she lived after her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Two of her banner verses were Isaiah 40:31 and Psalm 46:10.

A native of Florida, she moved to Jay in fourth grade and graduated high school there. Her degree in Music Education was from Samford University in Birmingham with an emphasis in piano. As Elaine would say, “I’ve played piano in church as long as I can remember,” and she continued that into the weeks preceding her death. Her first career in fashion merchandising resulted when a member of her Baptist church in Birmingham did not want her to move and arranged for a job at Pizitz Department Stores in the junior executive training program. All will remember Elaine in her stylish clothes and shoes, especially those high heels.

Elaine with her many talents moved back to Florida and worked as a successful floral designer. In 2009 she received a calling that resulted in great influence in the spiritual lives of many: she became Director of Children’s Ministries at First Baptist Church in Milton, where she remained on staff until her death. As her pastor stated in his weekly online commentary, “The children adored her. Her teachers appreciated her. Her church family thought the world of her. Her pastor and church staff enjoyed serving alongside her...Elaine exuded talent, skill and ability...The faith she exhibited in ministering to our children will speak long after her death.” Elaine declared that she would not allow cancer to be an idol. Rather, she lived a joyful life and was used by God to the end of her earthly days.

Elaine is survived by her husband of almost 13 years, Greg Gillis; children, Matt Gillis of Colorado Springs, CO, Rachel Gillis Lomoriello (Paul) of Fort Mill, SC, and Andrew Gillis (Ashley) of Mobile, AL; grandchildren, Luke, Daniel, and Ruth Lomoriello and unborn Grady Gillis; mother, Donna Rea Fulford of Jay; sister, Debbie Godwin (Bruce) of Jay; and niece, Donna Smith (Steven) of Jay. She was preceded in death by her father J.D. Fulford.
Visitation for friends and family will be at First Baptist Church in Milton on Friday, November 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with the service immediately following. Officiating will be Dr. Jonathan Russell with interment at Serenity Gardens in Milton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Children’s Ministry, 6797 Caroline Street, Milton, FL 32570. Lewis Funeral Homes of Milton is coordinating arrangements.

An anthem of inspiration for Elaine and Greg was “Move (Keep Walking)” by Toby Mac. May these challenging words move us to the same passion of unfaltering, profound faith.