Chris Gignilliat

Born in Pontiac, Michigan on September 14, 1955

Departed on May 18, 2019 and resided in Fairview, Tennessee

Age 63, of Fairview, passed away May 18, 2019.
Chris was a selfless man. He always had a sense of humor and found joy in ordinary moments spent with family and with friends that became family. He was the most devoted husband, father and grandfather, teaching us all what love was about. Always willing to help a friend or help a stranger, he possessed a quiet gentle nature but had a very big heart. Chris was an engineer for GM and willingly moved his family to Tennessee to work for Saturn. He was a loyal, dedicated employee who took pride in his work. A true outdoorsman, Chris enjoyed hunting and very much appreciated the beauty found in nature. He enjoyed watching Preds hockey, riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, woodworking and shooting, and playing the guitar or listening to music. He could fix anything and took pride in teaching his children to be strong and independent, supporting them in softball and soccer or a multitude of other activities, all the while giving them that sense of security that made them feel safe. Stubborn and strong willed, these qualities served him well through his life, although we could tell you that sometimes it made things pretty interesting. You could usually find him giving someone a hard time, and that meant he liked you. We hope to make Chris proud as we strive to live a life of kindness and generosity, a life that we think would surely make him proud.
Preceded in death by his parents, Pearl Roesel Stanford Gignilliat and Herman Warren Gignilliat. Survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Marcy Gignilliat; children, Tess Lambert (Chris) and Aaron Gignilliat (Savannah); grandchildren, Ally, Aubrey, Maci, Riley and Reed; sister, Anita O'Leary (John); brother, Mike Gignilliat (Katie); beloved dog, Darby; several nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
Memorial Donations may be made to the Cardiac Transplant Program at VUMC: 3322 West End Ave, Ste. 900, Nashville, TN, 37203
A Life Celebration will be held 11:00am-1:00pm, Saturday, May 25th with a time of reflection at 12:30pm at The Pavilion at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens, 9090 Hwy 100, Nashville, TN, 37221, 615-646-9292, harpethhills.com