R. Eileen (MacDonald) Gillis

With heavy hearts yet deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Rita “Eileen” Gillis (née MacDonald), who passed peacefully on January 30, 2026, at The Mount in Charlottetown, PEI, at 100 years young.

Born in Mount Stewart, PEI, Eileen was the daughter of John A MacDonald and Jeanette MacDonald. From her rural Island roots, she grew into a woman known for her warmth, humour, sense of adventure and deep devotion to family.

She was the cherished wife of the late Edward J. Gillis, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they were known for their practical jokes on family and friends, always sharing a laugh with those around them.

Eileen’s greatest love was her family. She took pride in every generation and found joy in gatherings large and small. When her children bought their own homes, she often checked them out before stating "This is a good party room'. Summers and cottage life were especially dear to her heart. Long days, good company, and endless card games with Ed and her siblings in the Stanhope compound. She also loved antiquing road trips with the girls and turning everyday outings into cherished memories.

Horse-and-buggy was her original travel mode, yet Eileen went on to explore China, Europe, Australia and the Caribbean long before overseas journeys became familiar to most.

She also had a wonderful sense of style. No matter the occasion, Eileen was always pulled together — hair done, makeup on, and looking ready for company. Even on the most casual days, she somehow managed to look polished, as if guests might drop by at any moment. 

In Charlottetown, she was also known as one of the best bakers around. Eileen’s tea biscuits were famous, and her kitchen was always a place of comfort, conversation, and something warm coming out of the oven.

She was predeceased by her husband Edward J. Gillis and her siblings Pius, Boyd, Howard, Helen (Driscoll), Alphonse, Charles, Marian (McLaughlin), Estelle (Fisher), and Leonard MacDonald.

Eileen is lovingly remembered by her children Margo Gillis, Ed Gillis (Pat), Geraldine Forsythe (David), and Christine Arthur (Dave); her grandchildren Daryl (Lisa), Amanda (John), Joseph (Aislin), Jay (Kathleen), Dana, Kathleen (Cory), Charlotte (Chris), Stephen, Adeline, and Xiao; her great-grandchildren Jacob, Kyzly, Naara, Noa, Olive, Frankie, Ruby; and by too many adoring nieces and nephews to mention, all of whom she held close to her heart.

Eileen leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, curiosity, and family devotion. Her home was welcoming, her kettle often on, and her love always steady. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

The family would like to thank all the staff at The Mount for the continuing care and love they gave Eileen during her stay with them.

A celebration of life will be held summer 2026.

In lieu of flowers a donation to The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation is greatly appreciated.