Elder Kenneth Jerome Gillis

The Life of Elder Kenneth J. Gillis The loved and beloved Elder Kenneth Jerome Gillis, determined to live life on God’s terms, entered this world on August 16, 1961. His parents, Wesley and Katheryn Gillis, brought him home, as the baby of the family, to adoring siblings, Gregory, Cindra, Mike, and Rocky. Knowing that Ken was indeed a gift from God, he was baptized and accepted Christ at Bethel AME church, where he attended and worshiped. Against any odds, Ken graduated from Pompano Beach High School, class of 1979, leaving a litany of lives he touched, people he inspired. Ken began his career at the Broward County Library. His dedication to service allowed him to be an inspiration at the library for 30 years. Additionally, Ken served as the Assistant Clerk and Clerk at the election poll precinct 6 (six) housed at the Thomas D Stephanis Boys and Girls Club for many years. Kenneth’s Pompano Beach community has loved him his entire life and helped to shape him into the man we all came to love. It’s also his community that gave him his nickname. As he played on the basketball courts across from his childhood home, or as he walked home, it wasn’t uncommon to hear the playful greeting, “PUDDIN!” from a passing car. Puddin’ became a hometown legend with big hopes and dreams for not only himself, but for his loved ones. His love for people, service and his community could only be matched by his love for the word of God. It’s this love that took him to New Life Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ, where he worked in God’s vineyard for 26 years. The title of Elder Gillis was bestowed upon him and he proudly served, dutifully, and with beaming pride, alongside his dearly departed grandmother, Mother Ella Mae Thomas, who proceeds him in death. He ministered with his mother, Katheryn, providing praise and prayers for senior citizens. When he wasn’t working or at church, he could be found next to his loving father, Wesley, covering the day’s sports and news. Ken was truly the star of his family. As much as he was loved, he loved. His siblings, Gregory (Wanda), Cindra “Pinky”, Michael (Theil), Roderick “Rocky” (Kim) will celebrate his life and all the laughter he brought. He loved his nieces and nephews and his face would light up at the sight of any of them. Keith (Dana), Starla (Malachi), Tandakwa “Tan” (Marlo, Taylor, Taniya, Tahj, Taraji, Nehemiah), Gregory, II “Bubba”, (Siobhan), Kristen, Ashley, Lace, Roderick, II (Natassia, Sire, Adonis), Sherrell, Rodney (Kennedi), will cherish his hugs and genuine love, forever. His extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins are committed to keeping his memory alive. God saw fit for Ken to leave his earthly home on March 22, 2022. For every moment we shared, for every life he touched, for every kind word he extended….. Lord, we thank you

Elder Kenneth Jerome Gillis

August 16, 1961 - March 22, 2022