Donald James "D.J." Gillis

Donald James “D.J.” Gillis, born on September 27, 1969, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton, Massachusetts, passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 56.

D.J. spent much of his childhood living in Tennessee and traveling throughout the southern United States, while summers were devoted to Cape Breton Island, Canada. These experiences shaped his devotion to family and instilled in him a proud connection to both his Scottish heritage and his Southern roots. He treasured the bonds he shared with his many cousins and extended family in both places.

A proud graduate of Waltham Vocational High School, Class of 1987, D.J. pursued his passion for adventure and hands-on work at The Ocean Corporation in Houston, Texas, where he earned certification as a commercial diver and mechanic. His career led him to demanding and respected projects across the country, including work on oil rigs in the “Gulf of America” and underwater assignments along the Connecticut River and in Vermont.

He was especially proud of his membership in Pile Drivers Local Union 56. D.J. contributed to the historic Central Artery Project — Boston’s Big Dig — and to the cleanup of the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant, work that helped transform and modernize the city he loved. These accomplishments were among his greatest sources of pride. Though his final project brought him profound personal hardship and trauma.

His experience at Deer Island was later chronicled in the book Trapped Under the Sea by Neil Swidey, drawing national attention to the perilous world of commercial diving and to D.J.’s strength and perseverance.

D.J. lived boldly and fully. He loved exceptional food, warm weather, beach life, bad ass trucks, country music and beautiful women. A gifted storyteller, he could captivate any room with tales of the past. He was the life of the party, fierce and loyal, protective of those he loved, and known for his quick wit and larger-than-life personality.

He leaves behind his beloved son, his devoted mother, Lorraine Marie Gillis Jones of Waltham; his brother, David H. Jones and wife Teresa of Newton; and his nephew & niece Alec & Katrina. He is also survived by his loving uncles, Donald and James of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia; his aunt Margaret of Waltham, whom he adored; along with many cousins and lifelong friends.

He was predeceased by his stepfather, David L. Jones.

While his passing will leave a void, his spirit endures in the stories told, the waters he worked in, and the countless lives he touched.

A private funeral has been planned.

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