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Sign up freeGillis Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Gillis Surname
The surname Gillis originates from the Scottish and Irish regions, often considered a variant of the Gaelic name "Gille Iosa," which translates to "servant of Jesus." This surname has historical roots tracing back to the medieval period, reflecting religious influences prevalent during those times. Over the centuries, the name has become associated with various professions and social standings, embedding itself in the cultural tapestry of these regions.
As the surname Gillis evolved, it spread geographically beyond its Scottish and Irish origins. Notable individuals bearing the name have emerged from various fields across North America and Europe, indicating the surname's broad cultural reach. From Alan Gillis, an Irish politician, to John Anthony Gillis, an American musician known as Jack White, the name has been carried by influential figures in politics, the arts, and academia, illustrating its diverse representation across continents.
YourRoots data corroborates the historical movement of the Gillis surname, indicating its presence in Scotland and Ireland since at least the medieval era. The data highlights how the Gillis family tree expanded into North America, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, as individuals sought new opportunities. This aligns with the emergence of notable figures like Clarence Gillis in Canada and James Lisle Gillis in America, further enriching the tapestry of Gillis genealogy.
For genealogists and family historians, the Gillis records within YourRoots provide a valuable resource for tracing lineage and understanding the surname's cultural journey. The continuity between historical information and modern genealogical data offers a robust framework for anyone researching the Gillis family tree, revealing a legacy that spans continents and centuries.
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Records
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AGAddison Gillis1870–1882Individual Tree PersonParents: Benjamin Gillis & Sarah WilletScore: AAGAddison Gillis1870–1882Individual Tree PersonParents: Benjamin Gillis & Sarah WilletScore: A
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AGA. Daniel Gillis1915–1997Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Gillis & Anne MacDonaldSpouse: Mildred GillisChildren: Danna, CarmelScore: AAGA. Daniel Gillis1915–1997Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Gillis & Anne MacDonaldSpouse: Mildred GillisChildren: Danna, CarmelScore: A
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AGAlexander GILLIS1691–1737Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Gillis & Mary McDonaldSpouse: Elisabeth GillisChildren: James, Catharine, Janet, Duncan, William, Margaret, Elizabeth, James, Mary, Elizabeth, Margaret, Catherine, ELIZABETH, Mary, Janet, Alexander, Alexander, Catherine, AlexanderScore: BAGAlexander GILLIS1691–1737Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Gillis & Mary McDonaldSpouse: Elisabeth GillisChildren: James, Catharine, Janet, Duncan, William, Margaret, Elizabeth, James, Mary, Elizabeth, Margaret, Catherine, ELIZABETH, Mary, Janet, Alexander, Alexander, Catherine, AlexanderScore: B
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1G11-Catherine Gillis1656–1727Individual Tree PersonParents: Hugh Gillis & Ann MacIntyreSpouse: 11-Patrick Hay, John Campbell, John CampbellChildren: GrissellScore: B1G11-Catherine Gillis1656–1727Individual Tree PersonParents: Hugh Gillis & Ann MacIntyreSpouse: 11-Patrick Hay, John Campbell, John CampbellChildren: GrissellScore: B
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AGAgnes Gillis1801–1856Individual Tree PersonParents: Joshua Bradley & Mary PoorScore: BAGAgnes Gillis1801–1856Individual Tree PersonParents: Joshua Bradley & Mary PoorScore: B
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AGAddie Gillis1863–1909Individual Tree PersonParents: Hillard Hill & Mary BallScore: BAGAddie Gillis1863–1909Individual Tree PersonParents: Hillard Hill & Mary BallScore: B
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AGAeneas Andrew Gillis1853–1919Individual Tree PersonParents: James Gillis & Nancy McIntyreScore: CAGAeneas Andrew Gillis1853–1919Individual Tree PersonParents: James Gillis & Nancy McIntyreScore: C
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AGAlexander GILLIS1691–1737Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Gillis & Mary McDonaldSpouse: Elisabeth SutherlandChildren: CatharineScore: CAGAlexander GILLIS1691–1737Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Gillis & Mary McDonaldSpouse: Elisabeth SutherlandChildren: CatharineScore: C
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AGAlexander Gillis1753–1837Individual Tree PersonParents: James Gillis & Nancy CampbellScore: CAGAlexander Gillis1753–1837Individual Tree PersonParents: James Gillis & Nancy CampbellScore: C
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AGAlexander Barra “Sandy” Gillis1817–1892Individual Tree PersonParents: Malcolm Gillis & Alice JonesSpouse: Margaret McLeodChildren: CalvinScore: CAGAlexander Barra “Sandy” Gillis1817–1892Individual Tree PersonParents: Malcolm Gillis & Alice JonesSpouse: Margaret McLeodChildren: CalvinScore: C
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AGAlexander Gillis1650–1738Individual Tree PersonParents: Patrick Gillis & Agnes WilsonSpouse: Mary McDonaldChildren: AlexanderScore: CAGAlexander Gillis1650–1738Individual Tree PersonParents: Patrick Gillis & Agnes WilsonSpouse: Mary McDonaldChildren: AlexanderScore: C
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AGAlexander Gillis1650–1738Individual Tree PersonParents: Patrick Gillis & Agnes WilsonSpouse: Mary McDonaldChildren: AlexanderScore: CAGAlexander Gillis1650–1738Individual Tree PersonParents: Patrick Gillis & Agnes WilsonSpouse: Mary McDonaldChildren: AlexanderScore: C
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AGAlexander Gillis1730–1799Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander GILLIS & Elisabeth GillisScore: CAGAlexander Gillis1730–1799Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander GILLIS & Elisabeth GillisScore: C
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AGAlexander Gillis1720–1799Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander GILLIS & Elisabeth GillisScore: CAGAlexander Gillis1720–1799Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander GILLIS & Elisabeth GillisScore: C
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AGAlexander Gillis1732–1790Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander GILLIS & Elisabeth GillisScore: CAGAlexander Gillis1732–1790Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander GILLIS & Elisabeth GillisScore: C
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AGAgnes Wilson Gillis1634–1701Individual Tree PersonParents: John Wilson & Helene DowgallSpouse: Patrick GillisChildren: AlexanderScore: CAGAgnes Wilson Gillis1634–1701Individual Tree PersonParents: John Wilson & Helene DowgallSpouse: Patrick GillisChildren: AlexanderScore: C
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Tracing Your Gillis Family Lineage
Currently, YourRoots Map does not yet have enough verified historical and migration data to provide a detailed analysis of the Gillis surname. However, we’re continuously expanding our global database using family trees, historical records, and DNA-based connections contributed by our growing community of researchers.
As more data becomes available, this page will be updated to include an in-depth look at the [SURNAME] family’s regional origins, early historical records, and migration patterns across centuries.
Famous People with Gillis (and Their Family Tree)
Shane Gillis
Shane Michael Gillis, born December 11, 1987, is a prominent American stand-up comedian, actor, and podcaster. Known for co-hosting the popular "Matt and Shane's Secret Podcast," Gillis gained recognition after being named a "New Face" at the Just for Laughs festival in 2019. Though briefly hired by "Saturday Night Live," he faced controversy over past podcast remarks and was let go. Gillis continues to thrive with comedy specials like "Shane Gillis: Live in Austin" and "Shane Gillis: Beautiful Dogs," as well as starring in the Netflix series "Tires."
Gillis was born in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, to parents of Irish Catholic heritage. Raised in a sports-oriented environment, he played football during high school before attending West Chester University.
Mason Gillis
Mason Gillis, born November 24, 2000, in New Castle, Indiana, is a standout American college basketball player known for his remarkable journey in NCAA Division I basketball. As a key player for the Purdue Boilermakers, he showcased exceptional skills, earning accolades such as Big Ten Freshman of the Week and Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year. Gillis's sharpshooting ability, particularly his 46.8% three-point shooting in his senior season, contributed to Purdue's advancement to the 2024 NCAA Tournament final. Currently playing for the Duke Blue Devils, Gillis leverages the additional eligibility year granted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to further his impressive collegiate career.
Gillis has an older sister who played volleyball at Wisconsin, highlighting a family with a strong athletic background. Additionally, Mason Gillis participated in the Little League World Series, underscoring his long-standing involvement in competitive sports.
Jamie Gillis
Jamie Gillis, born Jamey Ira Gurman in New York City, was a renowned American pornographic actor and director, celebrated for his contributions to the adult film industry. He was a pivotal figure in the Golden Age of Porn, starring in over 470 movies and winning multiple awards, including the AVN Hall of Fame. Known for his roles in Radley Metzger's films and the pioneering Gonzo style, Gillis co-produced the influential Dirty Debutante series. His career highlights include starring in The Opening of Misty Beethoven and the On the Prowl series, which inspired scenes in mainstream cinema such as Boogie Nights.
Sean Vincent Gillis
Sean Vincent Gillis is a notorious American serial killer and sex offender, infamous for his brutal murders of eight women in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, from 1994 to 2004. Known for his chilling modus operandi, Gillis confessed to these heinous crimes, including the murders of Katherine Hall, Johnnie Mae Williams, and Donna Bennett Johnston. His arrest followed a detailed investigation that linked him to the murders through tire track evidence. Gillis's horrific acts, often involving post-mortem mutilation, deeply shocked the community and highlighted his dark, troubled psyche.
Born on June 24, 1962, in Baton Rouge, Sean Vincent Gillis was raised in southern Louisiana by his mother, Yvonne, and his grandparents after his father, Norman Gillis, abandoned the family shortly after his birth.
Brad Gillis
Bradley Frank Gillis, born on June 15, 1957, is a renowned guitarist known for his pivotal role in the rock band Night Ranger. He has been instrumental in every incarnation of the band since its inception in 1979. Gillis has also contributed to the success of Ozzy Osbourne, Fiona, and the collaborative project Hear 'n Aid. His solo work includes the album "Gilrock Ranch," featuring the hit "Honest to God." With over 300 songs placed for major sports networks and numerous live performances, Gillis has cemented his legacy in the music industry. He is recognized for his extensive collection of guitars, including his iconic 1962 Fender Stratocaster and 1971 Gibson Les Paul.
Gillis Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Gillis" is associated with a variety of notable individuals across different professions, including politics, entertainment, and academia. The name has roots that span across several countries, including Ireland, America, and Canada, and is linked to diverse fields such as music, acting, and athletics.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Gillis
We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Gillis family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Gillis surname to learn more.
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