William R. Gillie, Sr.

CMSgt. U.S. Air Force (Ret) William R. “Bill” Gillie Sr., passed away at home on Friday, May 8, 2026, he was 90. Chief Gillie was born to the late James B. and Kathryn B. Gillie.

Chief Gillie served his country proudly with distinction and honor and served a combined total of 36 years, first with the National Guard and then as a Chief Master Sargent for the US Air Force. As a pilot, he flew missions in Vietnam. His service landed him at the Dover Air Force Base, where he was a Chief Flight Engineer for C5’s, Chief Flight Examiner for the Base, and an Inspector for the Inspector General Team. He led an exemplary career with the military, one that he was most proud of.

Chief Gillie lived an independent life filled with many adventures. An outdoor enthusiast, he could be found fishing or hunting or spending time at his cabin in Pennsylvania. He also enjoyed his yearly cross-country travels on his BMW motorcycle, anywhere from Texas to Alaska. Chief Gillie was also a great fixer and loved to fix anything that needed to be worked on. Above all, he was a great family man, enjoying as much time as possible with his wife and children, and once his grandchildren entered the picture, he was an excellent grandfather and loved his grandchildren dearly. He will be sadly missed.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Gertrude “Betty” Gillie, and a brother Ronald Gillie.

He is survived by his children, Carol (Tony) Boyd-Heron, Donna (Todd) Ratledge, William (Annalise) Gillie Jr., Eric (Leslie) Gillie, Greg Gillie; brothers, James and Ken Gillie; 9 grandchildren; extended family and close friends.

A Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, 15522 S. DuPont Hwy, Harrington, DE at 11 AM with a visitation for family and friends starting at 10 AM. Interment with military honors will take place immediately after the service at Hollywood Cemetery, Harrington.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations be made to the Make A Wish Foundation, www.wish.org

Arrangements are entrusted to the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home.