Janet Gillis
Godfrey | Save
Janet F. Gillis, age 85, of Godfrey, IL, passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024, with her family by her side.
She was born in Edwardsville, IL on January 2, 1939, the daughter of Ralph and Mabel (Klopmeier) Helmkamp. She married Edward Gillis, Sr., at Zion Lutheran Church in Bunker Hill, IL on May 19, 1962. They were happily married 36 years, until his death in 1998.
Upon graduating from Bunker Hill High School in 1956, she went to work for Olin Winchester, until she became a stay at home mom. As her children grew older, Janet rejoined the workforce and enjoyed a career with Madison County Employment and Training, until her retirement. She also enjoyed many years as an Avon representative. Janet was a member of St Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River, IL.
Janet enjoyed playing games and spending cherished time with her children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories and strong family bonds. She enjoyed many games of pinochle with her family and card club friends. She was beloved for her kindness, generosity, and loving nature.
Janet is survived by her daughters, Kim and David Collins of Alton, IL, and Pam and Roger Kirby of Grafton, IL; daughter-in-law, Sarah Gillis of Dunlap, IL; five grandchildren, Drew and Stevi Kirby, Kaylee Collins, Stephanie Collins, Emily Gillis, and Ethan Gillis. She is also survived by her sister, Louise and Jerry Weidner; brothers-in-law, Ralph Hall, John Robinson, and Don Gillis; and sister-in-law, Sharon Depper.
In addition to her parents and husband, Janet was preceded in death by her son, Edward Gillis, Jr. in 2020; sisters, Arlene Hall and Phyllis Robinson; niece, Amy Robinson; and great-nephew, Wyatt Robinson.
Visitation will be Friday, September 13, from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. at Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey. Services will be Saturday, September 14, at 10 a.m. at St Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River, IL, with Rev. David Schultz officiating. Graveside service will follow at St James Cemetery, 5662 IL-159, Edwardsville, IL.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wood River.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
