Joseph C. Gillis, 94, of Narragansett, passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026, at South County Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of the late Doris M. (Samson) Gillis. Joe was born in Providence to Francis and Mary (Roach) Gillis. He was predeceased by his siblings, Francis, James, John (who was killed in action during World War II), Mary, Edward, Martina, and Evelyn.

He was a proud Air Force veteran, serving as a radio operator during the Korean War. Joe enjoyed a rich 41-year career as an electronics technician at Federal Products Corporation before retiring to start his second career as "Grandpa Joe" for the next 30 years. He was a talented and resourceful man who could fix just about anything: Joe was always willing to lend his skills and a helping hand with electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and much more.

Joe had a passion for all sports but was especially devoted to Notre Dame football. He proudly followed his team through every season, a dedication he shared with his father, his son, his brothers, and his friend Sean. A soccer coach for his son Joe Jr., Joe would later serve as a fixture and sidelines coach at softball, tennis, volleyball, dance, and cheer competitions for many years.

Above all else, Joe's greatest commitment was to his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, he is survived by his children, Patty McLeod and her husband Scott, Joseph C. Gillis, Jr. and his wife Jennifer; five grandchildren, Alex, Jessie, Katie, Sarah, and Emily; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Joe's family will always remember him for his generosity, kindness, quick wit, curiosity, and infinite love.

Visitation for Joe will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:30 AM in the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St., Wakefield, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM in Christ the King Church, 180 Old North Road, Kingston. Burial with military honors will follow in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter.

In lieu of flowers, please take your loved ones out for ice cream, order a scoop of maple walnut in Joe's memory, and carry his spirit of generosity forward.