Charles David Gillis, Sr.

Charles David Gillis, Sr., age 78, of Sanford, NC, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, July 12, 2020 with his loving family by his side.

Charles was born in Guilford County on March 5, 1942, to the late Ruth Gillis Graham.  In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his brother, Billy Wayne Graham.  Charles served his Country in the US Army Reserve.  He was the owner of Gillis Pump Company in Sanford for more than 30 years, and an avid lover of the sport of drag racing.  He enjoyed countless hours designing and building drag race cars and attending NHRA races across the southeast. 

He is survived by his wife, Pamela Bryant Gillis, and three children: Candace Gillis Gowan and husband Steve, of Charlotte; Charles David Gillis, Jr. (Chuck) and wife Shannon, of Sanford; Crystal Gillis Abercrombie and husband Steve, of Sanford; brother, Buster Graham of Olivia, and sister, Judy Graham Everidge and husband Billy Joe, of Olivia and four grandchildren: Elizabeth and Katie Gowan of Charlotte and Chase and Olivia Gillis of Sanford.

A public viewing will be held at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 14, 2020 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at 10:00 AM at Buffalo Cemetery with Travis Corley and Rev. Joel Murr officiating.

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