Paul Charles Gignilliat

OBITUARY

Paul Charles Gignilliat, 93, of Chicago, died November 22, 2025. He was known for his generosity, curiosity, and lifelong commitment to education, public service, and the arts. Mr. Gignilliat grew up in Illinois and graduated from the Culver Military Academy before attending Yale University, where he received his degree in 1953. He served as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy at the Great Lakes Naval Station aboard the USS Daniel A. Joy, an experience he often described as deeply formative. Following his military service, he began a long career in finance with Glore Forgan in Chicago. In 1961 he joined Kidder, Peabody & Co., remaining through its transitions to GE, PaineWebber, and UBS. He was respected for his insight, professionalism, and steady leadership over six decades in the industry. In 1958, Mr. Gignilliat married Ellen Cash, and together they raised three daughters in Oak Park. During their 30 years there, he became active in civic life, supporting the Oak Park Community Chest, helping lead the restoration of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, and serving as head of the Oak Park–River Forest High School Board. After relocating to Chicago in 1985, he deepened his involvement in the cultural community. He was a founding member of the Chicago Humanities Festival and served on the boards of Hubbard Street Dance, the Chicago International Film Festival, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and several other organizations. Mr. Gignilliat is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ellen; his daughters Suzanne (Tom Hinkes), Bibby, and Mary; and his grandsons Paul Sylvester Hinkes (Carolina Trombetta) and Philip Edward Hinkes. Memorial services will be held in Chicago, Illinois on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. (CST) at Fourth Presbyterian Church, and in Culver, Indiana on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. (EST) at the Culver Academies. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Culver Academies, Chicago Lights, or the Chicago Humanities Festival. For further information 312-421-0936 or www.michalikfuneralhome.com.