Margaret Gillis

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved mother Margaret (Marge) Gillis on Sunday, August 2nd, just shy of her 98th birthday. Marge was born in Rhinebeck on October 20, 1928 and grew up in Mt. Ross, a hamlet outside of Pine Plains, NY, surrounded by a large and loving family. After graduating from Pine Plains High School, she wasted no time heading to New York City at the age of 18. She was truly the original modern woman, independently working in Manhattan for Metropolitan Life and later for the Reformed Church. She cherished a close-knit circle of lifelong girlfriends with whom she shared many adventures—including a memorable trip to Miami that turned into a spontaneous getaway to Cuba just before the embargo. While living in the city, she met the love of her life, Francis Gillis, whom she affectionately called "Gil." The couple eventually moved back upstate, built a home, and started a family. Following Gil's untimely passing when their children were still very young, Marge dedicated herself entirely to providing her family with a normal, stable life. Channeling incredible resilience, she learned to drive, got her license, and built a successful career of more than 20 years as the beloved "AV Lady" for the Pine Plains School District.

In her well-deserved retirement, Marge found her greatest joy in doting on her granddaughter, Greta, as well as her many great-nieces and great-nephews. She is survived by her son, Jeff Gillis (Anne Chaisson) her daughter Julie Myers (Bruce Myers) and granddaughter Greta Myers; her younger sister Martha Ball, brother-in-law Fred “Buddy” Merriam, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Francis Gillis, parents John and Rebecca (Kruse) Muller, sister Sophia (Honey) Meriam, brother John (Dick) Muller, and brother-in-law Harold (Todd) Ball.

Visitation will take place at Peck & Peck Funeral Homes, 7749 South Main St. in Pine Plains Thursday August 6th from 10:00am to 12:00pm, immediately followed by a service officiated by the Reverend Mary Grace Williams. Internment will be held privately.