Katherine Bell Gillis

With love and tender remembrance, we honor Katherine Louise Bell Gillis, 87 of Swainsboro, a cherished mother and grandmother whose love, gentleness, grace and humility touched everyone around her. She passed away on November 1, 2026, at the Emanuel County Medical Center surrounded by her children and grandchildren who loved her deeply.

She is preceded in death by Howard and Ada Bell Glover, husband George W. Bell of 50 years, sisters Virginia Gay, Gail Parrish, brother William Glover.

She is survived by her husband Charles Gillis of 18 years; Four children, Kay Winters of Arizona (Husband - Robert) Monica Wren, Diane Waters, son Timmy Bell all of Swainsboro; stepdaughter, Tammy Claxton (Dock), along with 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild.

Family was the center of her world, and the love she had for each one was evident in everything she did. She loved Interior Design, painting, sewing, cooking, crocheting, upholstering furniture, she loved her Sunday School Class, singing in the choir and serving in any role no matter how large or small.

She traveled to all 48 states in the Union, lived in Europe, she was Co-director of “Tinkerbells” for 6 years, employed for 20 plus years at B. C. Moore’s, she volunteered for two years at Emanuel County Medical Center.

Her quiet and meek spirit carried the light of Jesus everywhere whether to family, friends or complete strangers. She was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed!

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Hawhammock Missionary Baptist Church with Reverend Cail Pressey officiating.  

Interment will follow in church cemetery with committal by Pastor Robert Winters.

Visitation will be held on November 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Chapman Funeral Home in Swainsboro.

Pallbearers are Jeff Glover, Terry Bell, John Madison Hooks, Mitch Fleming, Chance Callaway, and Jeremy Carson.

Condolences may be expressed at www.chapmanfhofswainsboro.com.

Chapman Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements for Mrs. Katherine Bell Gillis, 87, of Swainsboro.