Dr. Jay Colin Gillis, beloved husband, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and uncle passed away March 23, 2025 at the age of [75]. He was born in Minnesota to John and Frances and spent his early childhood in Minnesota and Pennsylvania, and teen years in Florida.

Jay's academic journey was marked by a commitment to excellence. He earned both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University. In the late 1970s, he moved to California to pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Thermosciences at Stanford University. His professional career was defined by his expertise and passion for engineering, and he spent many years contributing to the field.

In the early 1990s, Jay met his wife Shirley while working at SLI. The two were married in 2006, and their life together was one filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose.

Jay is survived by his wife, Shirley, stepchildren Devin and Michael (wife Tracy), grandchildren Sophia and Ian, his sister Christina, niece Amy, nephew Brian (wife Heather), and grandnephews Paul and Samuel. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the joy he found in helping others.

A kind and generous soul, Jay found fulfillment and contentment in supporting those around him, always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.