Gregory E. Tullis

Dr. Gregory “Greg” E. Tullis, 67, passed away on April 23, 2025, in Sedalia, Missouri. He was born on April 21, 1958, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to the late Melvin A. Tullis and Norma J. (Middleton) Tullis.

In 1990 he married Deb Roussell, and they remained lifelong friends.

Greg moved to Missouri as an eighth grader and graduated from Smith-Cotton High School in Sedalia. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Life Sciences, a Master of Science in Biological Sciences, and a Ph.D. in Microbiology, all from the University of Missouri where he received the Superior Graduate Achievement Award in Molecular Microbiology & Immunology. Dr. Tullis was then the recipient of the prestigious Jane Coffin Childs Medical Research Fellowship to continue his research and training at Princeton University.

Greg’s career was dedicated to scientific research. He contributed to groundbreaking gene therapy research at Avigen, a biopharmaceutical company, where he specialized in adeno-associated virus (AAV) delivery platforms for neurological disorders. At the University of Missouri and Boston University School of Medicine, his NIH-funded research focused on gene therapy treatments for Batten's disease in children. At MU, Greg also collaborated on gene and stem cell therapy research for other neurological disorders, including spinal muscular atrophy. Throughout his career, Dr. Tullis not only advanced scientific knowledge but also played an important role in training and mentoring the next generation of researchers. He published 19 research papers, which have been cited over 1,200 times by fellow scientists, with work appearing in respected journals such as the Journal of Virology, the Journal of Neuroscience Research, and Molecular Therapy. Research was Greg’s true passion—one he pursued with intensity, purpose, and joy until the very end.

Outside the lab, Greg’s life was full of curiosity and adventure. An Eagle Scout in his youth, he continued to love the outdoors—hiking, spelunking, canoeing, camping, and playing frisbee golf. He had a passion for baking, especially desserts like cookies, cheesecakes, and tarts, which he often shared with friends and family. He also enjoyed strategic tabletop games, hosting game nights and appreciating the challenge and focus they required.

Those who knew Greg will remember his sharp intellect, dry humor, and gentle kindness. He had a thoughtful presence, always ready to share knowledge, offer support, or make someone laugh. He found joy in the little things and left a lasting impression on those around him.

Greg is survived by his sisters: Linda Mayes (Robert) and Sharon Manley (Mark), both of Sedalia, and Janice Johnson of Knob Noster. He was a beloved uncle to Sabrina Selvey, Samuel Manley, Zachary Mayes, Kayla Woodside, Alexandra Mayes, Arlo Gonzales, DeLynn Johnson, Victoria Gonzales, Jacob Selvey, Aiden Selvey, Rowan Woodside, Chattarin Hempula and Wyot Woodside. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Rodney Tullis, his sister Dianne Gonzales, and his niece Jennifer Mayes.

A celebration of Greg’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 4 at the Clearfork Shelter in Knob Noster State Park. All who knew Greg are invited to join us to share stories and enjoy some of his favorite foods. Guests are welcome to bring a favorite memory—whether it be a fond story, a photo, or a song that reminds you of him. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Jane Coffin Childs Fund for Medical Research.