Ardis Elaine Gillette

Ardis Elaine (Harshbarger) Gillette, was born in Watseka, Illinois on October 8, 1939, and passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026, in Abilene, Texas. She lived a life marked by extraordinary loving kindness

Ardis grew up in Onarga, Illinois, where she began her first job as a teenager. She graduated from Onarga High School and eventually found her way to Abilene where she met her future husband, Robert “Bob” Gillette, and discovered her gift for numbers. She retired at age 78 from her role as bookkeeper and office manager for Wes-T-Go convenience stores after nearly 30 years of service. Known for her dedication and attention to detail, she was well-loved and respected by her colleagues and friends.

Ardis was never one to seek the spotlight but was always happy to serve behind the scenes. She exemplified what it means to be a member of her congregation. Ardis supported her church with her prayers, her presence, her gifts, her service and her witness. She helped support the youth ministry at St. Paul UMC in whatever ways she was needed, served on various committees and was even known to give the children’s sermon when Bob served a church in Tye. By far, however, her favorite ministry was to her three grandchildren, who lovingly knew here as “Hammah.”

On Sunday, with Bob by her side and surrounded by family in her final days, Ardis drew her final breath peacefully. Though her mind had been worn down by dementia, among the final words she uttered were, “love you, love you, love you.”

Ardis is survived by her husband, Robert “Bob”, her son Trey Gillette (Anna), her grandchildren, Eric Gillette (Abby), Jeff Gillette, Peter Gillette (Katey), her great-grandson Jackson and her sister Anita Harsbarger (Leroy) and Sister-In-Law, Judy Harshbarger.

She was preceded in death by her parents Oscar and Gwendolen Harshbarger and her brother Raymond Harshbarger.

A visitation with the family will take place Wednesday, May 20, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Aldersgate Methodist Church. A Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday, May 21, at noon, at the church.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Gillette Family Endowed Scholarship at McMurry University. For more information, please contact Philip Hannon at 325-793-4763 or hannon.philip@mcm.edu.