Gillis Harrison Obituary

Mr. Gillis Harrison peacefully transitioned from this life on the afternoon of July 7, 2025, following a gradual decline in health. In his final days, he was lovingly surrounded, supported and visited by his devoted family. Gillis was born on May 5, 1928 in Macon, North Carolina and was the beloved son of the late Palmer and Sylvester Harrison.
Gillis received his early education in the Warren County School System. He initially enlisted in the United States Marines Corps, but was later drafted into the United States Army where he proudly served and was stationed in Korea. Following his honorable discharged in 1956, Gillis relocated to New Jersey where he made the Garden State his home until retirement.
In 1957, Gillis met Mary Richardson. After a brief courtship, he was certain that she was the woman with whom he wished to share his life. They were united in holy matrimony on September 8, 1958, beginning a loving union that would span 66 years. From this union, four girls were born: Rosemary, Gilda, Cheryl and Pamela.
Gillis was employed for over 38 years at International Terminal Operations (ITO), which was later acquired by Maher Terminals. He was also a proud and longstanding member of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) in Newark, New Jersey. His career began in 1953 as a Hold Man, followed by positions as a Deck Man and Crane Operator. Through hard work, commitment and perseverance, Gillis rose through the ranks and was ultimately promoted to Gang Foreman – a position he held until his retirement.
Gillis was a faithful and dedicated member of Emmanuel Church of Christ in Newark, New Jersey for over 30 years where he served diligently on the Deacon Board prior to relocating to North Carolina. After his move, he joined True Gospel Church under the pastoral leadership of Alice Johnson where he remained a devoted member until his health began to decline.
Gillis had a deep compassion for people and never met a stranger. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need and was known for his kind and generous spirit. He enjoyed fishing and playing the guitar and was a proud member of the Sons of Thunder quartet group. Gillis was well known for his signature saying, "Save your money" or "Save some and spend some". He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Gillis leaves to cherish his loving memories his devoted wife of 66 years, Mary; three daughters, Gilda Harrison, Cheryl Harrison and Pamela Harrison; six grandchildren Mark Harrison, Tasha Hoskins, Jamar Hoskins (Kenya), Otis Walker, Jerome Walker, Tiesha Mitchell (Jermaine); as well as 11 great grandchildren; his brother Thomas Harrison and his wife Barbara, his sisters Gloria Harrison and Lottie Atkinson and her husband Fred. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and two godchildren Stacey Hayes and Charlotte Hall, and two special sons in Christ, Deacon Ernest Hall and Deacon Lewis Matthews. He was preceded in death by his loving daughter Rosemary Harrison.
A viewing will be held from 6:00 -8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Robinson Funeral Home, 215 US Highway 158, Littleton, NC, and on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 12:00 noon until the funeral time at 1:00 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church, 10614 US Highway 158, Littleton, NC. Pastor Perry Gillespie will deliver the eulogy and burial will follow in the Pine Grove Missionary Church Cemetery, 801 Church Hill Road, Macon, NC 27551.
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