On Friday, December 29, 2023, Macon-Bibb County held a dedication ceremony for the gymnasium at the Bloomfield-Gilead Recreation Center in honor of Grady E. Gillis, a Maconite who devoted years of service and leadership to the former Gilead Christian Academy and the entire community. You can watch the full ceremony here. 

“Mr. Gillis has been a member of Gilead Baptist Church for more than 60 years and was a founder of the Education committee at the church that oversaw the operation of the Gilead Christian Academy,” said District 7 Commissioner Bill Howell. “As a local entrepreneur, he employed thousands of middle Georgians over the years at various gas stations, tire stores, and other businesses. We salute this great Maconite for his dedication to our community.” 

“My father’s desire to please God caused him to care for the welfare of people. He has helped people be successful in life, such as his family, employees, church members, golfing buddies, and the students,” said Gillis’ son Barry Gillis. 

In October, the Commission unanimously approved the dedication in recognition of Gillis’ service to the community. On Friday, they unveiled the plaque that is placed on a wall inside the gymnasium. 

The former Gilead Christian Academy building was bought by the former county government using 2012 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds, and the Macon-Bibb County consolidated government used 2018 SPLOST funds to renovate and reopen the building as part of the Bloomfield-Gilead Recreation Center. Over the two SPLOSTS, approximately $2.8 million was used to upgrade the facility, and it now features a new fitness center, Middle Georgia Regional Library branch, fitness and recreation programs, and more.  

“Talk about emotions. This has brought on a bunch of them for me,” said Gillis. “Thank you for such a great honor. I appreciate the way the Lord has worked in my life to bring honor and glory to him. To all of you, thank you so much.” 

Click here to see more pictures from the ceremony.