Danvers- Mr. James Francis Gillis, 70, of Danvers, beloved husband of Annette (Vozzella) Gillis of Danvers, died unexpectedly Tuesday at his home. Born in Revere, he was the son of the late James and Eleanor (Marley) Gillis. James was raised and educated in Revere. James is formerly of West Peabody and East Boston.

An honorably discharged veteran, James served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps, during the Vietnam War. Mr. Gillis had been employed in law enforcement as a Deputy Lieutenant in the Suffolk County Sheriff Department, Boston, until the time of his retirement. Mr. Gillis was a devoted father who was actively engaged in his sons' endeavors. He volunteered his time by coaching youth baseball and basketball as well as the Pop Warner Football in East Boston.

James and his dedicated wife enjoyed spending time together at theirs homes in Maine and Florida. He was an avid bass fisherman with a larger than life personality, and was known for his quick humor and contagious smile. He will be sorrowfully missed.

In addition to his loving wife of 41 years, James is survived by his two sons, David J. Gillis and his wife Judianne (Moore) of Danvers, and Adam J. Gillis of Danvers, and his adoring grandchildren, Isobella and Aiden Gillis, his brother, Peter Gillis of Georgia, his sister-in-law Naomi Gillis of Rhode Island, and his special nephew James Gillis of Rhode Island. James was predeceased by his brother Arthur Gillis.

ARRANGEMENTS: His funeral will be held from the Peterson-O'Donnell Funeral Home 167 Maple St., (Rte 62) Danvers, Saturday at 9:15 A.M. followed by his funeral Mass in Our Lady of Assumption Church, 758 Salem St, Lynnfield, at 10 A.M. Relatives and friends invited. Burial in Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody. Visiting hours Friday from 4 to 8 P.M.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in James' memory to the Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal Street Watertown, MA 02472.

To share a memory or offer a condolence; visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com or for further information, inquire at 978-774-6600.