Louis was born on March 14, 1956, in Gainesville, Florida, to parents, Cicero and Nellie Gillard. He graduated in 1974 from Gainesville High School and received a football scholarship from the University of Tampa. He later earned a degree in criminal justice. Louis went on to join the military, where he honorably served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, retiring in 1995. After his military service, he settled in Riverview, FL, where most of his work career was spent working in youth rehabilitation services. He worked for companies such as Tampa Bay Academy and Street Smart who were devoted to making positive changes in the lives of young individuals who were at risk. He eventually retired from the Hillsborough County Water Department. Louis is survived by his spouse of 40 years, Cheryl Larry, and his seven children. He will be forever remembered as the cornerstone of his family, for the countless sacrifices he made, and for the endless love he showered upon his family.

He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving and devoted wife, Cheryl Larry Gillard; his loving children, Javon Gillard (Leolynetta), Brenishia "Neicie" McCray, Cherlyn "Sherry" Gilmore (Desmond), Louis Gillard, Jr., Samantha Degan (Harry), Dequan Gillard, and Dwayne Brewer (Cheryl); grandchildren, Jamar, Alexandria, Javon, Jr., Xari, Marreo, Jr., Tanisha, SaMyra, Jace, Isaac, Laila, Ahkyah, Dajuan, and Akilah; great-grandchildren, Sanaai, Samyaa, Darrion, Jermond, Jakari, and Olivia; great-great-grandchildren, Jace and Jamir; sisters-in-law, Marva Jackson, and Debra Smith; Devoted nieces and nephews; Wendell, Wayne, Zeatrick, Reneece, and Desmond Extended Family: Demetrius, Theodric and many more nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends lifelong friends: Clifford Hines and Jerome Ellis.