Michael James McGillis

Michael James McGillis obituary

My brother, Michael James McGillis, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2019.  He is survived by his children, Bethany, James (Laura) McGillis and his grandkids Jacob, Laila and Tyler.  Also surviving are his brother, Dr. Joseph (Gail) McGillis, Richmond, Kentucky, sister, Lucille (Tom) Harmon, Billings, Montana and his beloved dog, Sheba.

All were gathered at his bedside before his passing peacefully at St. Vincent’s Hospital where he received excellent care.  Also present at his side were his friends, Chris Goodwin and Pastor Josh Charette of Great Plains Gathering Church in Billings, Montana.

Mike graduated from Great Falls High School in Great Falls, Montana in 1977 with honors in music.  He also studied commercial and portraitist photography with advanced studies in industrial and illustrative photography at the Spokane Falls Community College, Spokane, Washington.  

He worked for several photography agencies before forming his own successful photography business.  He received many top honors and awards for photography and accolades from his clients which included wedding, schools, corporations and athletes.

Mike loved Christian and western music and loved to sing, play, teach the guitar and voice lessons.  He was loved and appreciated for his excellent talents and worked diligently & passionately to make sure his students did their best to succeed.

We loved Michael very much and our hearts are broken that he was taken way too soon but are glad that he is no longer suffering and no longer needs to “only imagine” as his favorite song goes: “I Can Only Imagine”.  

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers and please send any memorials to the Great Plains Gathering Church, Billings, Montana.