Janice P Gillespie

01/08/1938 – 08/17/2021

Janice Putman Gillespie, age 83, of Birmingham passed away Tuesday, August 17, 2021. She was preceded in death by parents Elva and Grady Putman, brother James and sister Jennie P. Taylor.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, James Gillespie, and daughters Julie Saint and Jodi Tetzlaff of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Jeanie Green (Russell, Sr.) of Oneonta; and Joy Gillespie (Jonathan Frechette) of Winston, Georgia. She also leaves behind grandsons Russell Green, Jr. (Jessica), Christopher Green, and Michael Green (Christina); great-granddaughters Piper Ann and Avery Grace; great-grandson Owen Grady; brother-in-law Vernie C. Taylor; sister-in-law Marilyn Gillespie; and her favorite cousin, Alice Hill Hughes.

Janice graduated from Woodlawn High School, class of 1955. She earned a bachelor’s of science from Howard College (now Samford University) and master’s of arts from University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Janice not only dedicated her life to her family and children, but also the children of the Birmingham area, serving as a devoted educator in the Birmingham City School system, teaching many years in primary grades. She created, produced, and hosted two televised series, which were aired by Birmingham Public Schools ETV, as well as Alabama Public Television. She later served as a program specialist with ETV.

After retirement, she joined the Medical Center East (now St. Vincent’s East) Auxiliary with duties at the Information Desk and as a patient rep. She served on the local auxiliary board for many years, including a two year term as president. Janice also held several offices on the Board of the Alabama Council of Hospital Auxiliaries, including that of state chairman. In 2014, she was named Volunteer of the Year by the Alabama hospital Association.

During her long-time membership at Woodlawn United Methodist Church, Janice taught children’s classes, sang in the choir, and served as pulpit assistant. Later as a member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, she served as liturgist and greeter. When Eastminister merged with Cahaba Springs Presbyterian Church, she served as liturgist as well as a reader for the children.

Janice enjoyed traveling with her husband, spending time with her family, and spoiling her grandchildren. She will be remembered for her friendly smile, her God-given talent of making the written page come to life, and her love of butterflies. When you see a butterfly, think of Janice.

Private graveside services will be held at the family’s request. Memorial contributions may be made to the Birmingham Humane Society or to one’s favorite charity.