George "Bud" Frederick Gillis, 86, passed away on June 12, 2026, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Born on July 16, 1939, in Masontown, Pennsylvania, to George and Anne Gillis, Bud lived a life defined by hard work, integrity, humor, and an unwavering love for his family.

Bud grew up in Masontown alongside his four sisters, Mary Ruth, Sue, Joyce, and Debra. He graduated from Masontown High School in 1957 and later attended Waynesburg College before serving his country in the U.S. Army during post-war Korea in the 1960s. A proud patriot throughout his life, Bud carried a deep appreciation for those who served and never lost his love for his roots - or for cheering on the West Virginia Mountaineers.

After returning home from military service, Bud settled in Ohio, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Doris Eleanor Sexton. They were married in February 1966 and built a remarkable life together spanning more than sixty years. Through every move, career opportunity, challenge, and adventure, Doris remained his constant companion.

Bud was a devoted husband, a proud father to Christopher and Gregory Gillis, and a loving grandfather to Madelyn and Mason. Family was the center of his world. Whether sharing stories, offering advice, or simply making everyone laugh, he had a gift for making those around him feel valued and loved. His grandchildren knew him as a source of encouragement and affection, while nieces, nephews, and family eagerly anticipated gatherings with "Uncle Bud," knowing there would be laughter, clever one-liners, and wonderful memories.

Known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor, Bud could lighten the room with a well-timed joke and had a way of making life's challenges seem a little easier. Yet beneath the humor was a man whose word could always be trusted. His loyalty, honesty, and quiet dependability earned him the respect of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Bud's work ethic was legendary. He worked for more than 65 years, including a distinguished 38-year career with United Airlines. His career took him around the world and to many cities across the country before he retired as General Manager at Will Rogers World Airport in 2001. Even retirement couldn't keep him still for long, and he continued working part-time while enjoying life in Oklahoma City, the community he and Doris chose as their permanent home.

When he wasn't working, Bud embraced life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed golfing with friends, traveling with family, reading voraciously - often finishing a book each week - and spending quiet evenings watching golf tournaments, classic movies, and occasionally accompanied by a favorite margarita.

Although many knew him as George, to his family he was simply Bud - a man whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and strength. He never lost his sense of humor, his curiosity, or his devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the values he passed down, the stories that will continue to be told, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and character.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents, George and Anne Gillis, and his sister, Mary Ruth.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Doris; his sons, Christopher (Shelly) and Gregory (Cindy); his grandchildren, Madelyn and Mason; and his sisters, Sue, Joyce, and Debra.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.