Arthur Samuel Gillespie Jr.

Arthur Samuel Gillespie Jr., 85, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 7, 2017. Arthur was born November 21, 1931 in China, son of the late Arthur S. Gillespie Sr. and Pauline Gillespie who were missionaries at the time in China. Arthur came to the United States when he was 17 years old and attended Mars Hill College and later graduated from Wake Forest University. He continued his education at Duke University and graduated with his master’s degree as a chemist. Arthur was a man who loved the Lord and was devoted to his wife Faye of 63 years. His family always came first. Arthur (K4TP) loved ham radio and served the hobby in many ways all around the world. He played and built dulcimers, was a photography buff and was an avid dog lover. He retired from FMC Lithium in Bessemer City where he was a member of the Quarter Century Club. He was also very active at First Baptist Church including the prison ministry.

Besides his beloved wife, those left behind to cherish his memory are his children, Arthur S. Gillespie III (Kathy) of Greenwood, SC, Mary Armstead (Bob) of Gastonia and Becky Carithers (Roger) of Gastonia; brothers, James Gillespie of Silver Springs, MD (his twin), Paul Gillespie of Asheville, NC and David Gillespie of Charleston, SC; grandchildren, Anna Schneider (Eric), Sarah Conner (Matt), Erin Armstead, Nathan Gillespie, and Kelsey Carithers.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, January 14, 2017 at First Baptist Church in Gastonia. Reverend Steven Fuller will preside. Interment will follow at Gaston Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 12:30-2:00 PM prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Mission’s program at First Baptist Church, 2650 Union Road, Gastonia, NC 28054.

Online condolences and fond memories may be made at: www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com;

Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the Gillespie family.