Duane H. Gillis of Clarksville, Tennessee, was a kind, generous man who would give everything to his family, friends and those he considered in need.

He was a loving husband and father who died peacefully at his home with his family at his bedside Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the age of 87.

Duane was born on September 5, 1936 in Louisville, Alabama, to the late Lum Gillis and Pearla Hicks. He was the youngest of their five children.

Duane retired from the United States Air Force in August 1974, after 20 years of service in various locations including in the U.S., Germany and England. His career included ICBM Atlas missile electronics and ground radio communications.

In addition to the USAF, he also worked for Michelin Tire Corp. in Dothan, Alabama; Centerstone Clarksville–Harriett Cohn Center and Progressive Directions, Inc. in Clarksville, Tenn essee; and for the Tenn essee Department of Human Services.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi and a master’s degree in psychologic al counseling from Ball State University.

Duane was an avid reader who loved to travel with his family. He also loved to watch and feed the hummingbirds in his home garden.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Jacqueline, and his daughters, Linda Suzanne Gillis and Lori Gillis Miller (Craig).

A graveside service was held at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West on September 11 at 2 p.m.

Visitation was at noon at Neal Tarpley Parchman Funeral Home.

Arrangements are entrusted to Neal Tarpley Parchman Funeral Home, 1510 Madison Street, Clarksville, TN; (931) 645-6488. Online condolences may be made at www.neal tarpley parchman.

com.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Cancer Society or the AseraCare Hospice at 1539 Ashland Road C, Clarksville, TN 37040.