He was adored as a husband, dad, Papa, Bubba, and just Jim. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years Maryann Friend Gillespie, and daughters Debbie Macon (Bryan) of Dalton, Georgia and Janet Pierce (Keith) of Augusta, Georgia. He is also survived by 4 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Jim is survived by a sister, Mary Gillespie (Wallace) of Franklin, Tennessee as well as nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Priscilla and Wallace K. Gillespie and a brother Eddie Gillespie all of Knoxville, Tennessee.
He fought bravely in World War II and participated in and survived the Battle of the Bulge. Jim helped to liberate the concentration camp Buchenwald and was awarded the Silver Star for his service to his country.
Upon returning to the United States after the war, he studied at and graduated from the University of Tennessee – Knoxville. In 1951, he was the pitcher for Tennessee’s winning College World Series baseball team.
Coaching the sports he loved brought Jim Gillespie to coach various Little League baseball teams. He also coached youth football.
As an executive for Smith, Kline, and French (now Glaxco, Smith, Kline), Jim worked for 37 years for the company and retired from them as a Southeast Regional Vice President.
Retirement allowed Jim and his wife, Maryann, to travel the world. They traveled from the far reaches of China, to Egypt, to Jerusalem, and toured most of Europe.
Always looking for a challenge, Jim started the Distinguished Speakers Program at Cherokee Country Club. He worked tirelessly for 15 years bringing an array of exceptional speakers to the club including General David Petraeus. At the age of 90, Jim passed the baton for others to lead and to continue this program.
Jim and his wife were faithful members of Peachtree Presbyterian Church for over 45 years.
Our world is a little empty now. Jim’s unusual sense of humor is quiet. His interaction with his family is now still. 96 years has taken a toll on Jim’s body and mind. We are blessed that he has left the earthly bonds and has touched the face of God. Let Heaven rejoice with its’ latest servant.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 15 at 2:30 pm at Arlington Cemetery at the Pavilion in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
