Martha Jackson Burell Gillis

Martha Jackson Burell Gillis, a beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, in Commerce, Georgia, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on November 10, 1930, in Atlanta, Georgia, Martha led a life characterized by faith, dedication, and a great sense of humor.

She was a devoted Christian and a charter member of the First Baptist Church of Dunwoody, which is now known as Dunwoody Baptist Church. In her professional life, Martha served as a secretary for many years at Dunwoody Baptist Church, where she touched the hearts of many through her service and commitment to her community.

Martha was educated at Secretarial School, which equipped her with the skills that would guide her career. Throughout her life, she demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her family and her faith. She will be remembered fondly for the love she shared as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, leaving behind a cherished legacy.

Martha is survived by her sons, Richard (Donna) Burell and Timothy (Wanda) Burell; her daughters, Deborah Burell, Virginia Deck, and Joy Clifford; thirteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Samuel Jackson; her mother, Bernice Ivy Jackson; her first husband, Henry Sanford Burell; her second husband, Johnny Wall Gillis; and her eleven siblings.

Visitation will be held at Dunwoody Baptist Church on December 30, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Following the service, interment will take place at North Atlanta Memorial Park.

Martha's warmth, humor, and deep faith will be missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Baptist Church of Commerce or Dunwoody Baptist Church in honor and memory of Martha Jackson Burell Gillis.