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(From Ozark Funeral Home)Edward Tabor Gillespie, known affectionately as Ed, passed away peacefully at his residence in Stella, Missouri on October 3, 2023, due to complications of Leukemia. Born on July 19, 1935, in Las Animas, Colorado, Ed spent his 88 years embodying the virtues of commitment, humor, and gentleness.
Ed was a proud alumnus of Las Animas High School, class of 1953. He married the love of his life Joy B. Woodruff. The couple exchanged their vows on October 13, 1973, in Pueblo, Colorado, marking the beginning of a beautiful relationship that spanned nearly five decades.
Together, they lived in Penrose, Colorado, before deciding that the Missouri countryside was more suited to their "Green Acres" lifestyle, moving to Stella in 1977, where they established their loving farm and raised their family.
Ed was a hardworking man, known for his dedication and commitment. His worked as a truck driver, and his love for the land led him to farming. Despite his busy schedule, Ed always made time for his community, serving as an active member of the First Baptist Church in Anderson, Missouri.
A man of many interests, Ed enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He was often found cutting wood, riding his tractor, or planning his next travel adventure. Ed had a special fondness for his dogs and grand-dogs, reflecting his gentle nature and love for all creatures. His handy skills were well-known and appreciated by all, and his sense of humor brought joy and laughter to every gathering.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elda (Elliot) Gillespie; his two children, Nova Dale Canterbury and Joe Gillespie, and his brother, Robert Gillespie. His legacy will be carried forward by his beloved wife, Joy Gillespie, his children Ric Gillespie (Fran), Bill Gillespie, Angela Frazier (Steven), and Lisa Whitesell (Brandon). Ed was a loving grandfather to fifteen grandchildren: Mike, Kelly Joe, Lisa, Tommy, Cassie, Jessica, Amy, Misty, Marc, Tristan, Trenton, Samantha, Nate, Gwyneth, and Laurel, and a doting great-grandfather to sixteen great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Eileen Donnelly of Sacramento, California, and a host of other family and friends who will remember him fondly.
Ed was a hardworking man, known for his dedication and commitment. His worked as a truck driver, and his love for the land led him to farming. Despite his busy schedule, Ed always made time for his community, serving as an active member of the First Baptist Church in Anderson, Missouri.
A man of many interests, Ed enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He was often found cutting wood, riding his tractor, or planning his next travel adventure. Ed had a special fondness for his dogs and grand-dogs, reflecting his gentle nature and love for all creatures. His handy skills were well-known and appreciated by all, and his sense of humor brought joy and laughter to every gathering.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elda (Elliot) Gillespie; his two children, Nova Dale Canterbury and Joe Gillespie, and his brother, Robert Gillespie. His legacy will be carried forward by his beloved wife, Joy Gillespie, his children Ric Gillespie (Fran), Bill Gillespie, Angela Frazier (Steven), and Lisa Whitesell (Brandon). Ed was a loving grandfather to fifteen grandchildren: Mike, Kelly Joe, Lisa, Tommy, Cassie, Jessica, Amy, Misty, Marc, Tristan, Trenton, Samantha, Nate, Gwyneth, and Laurel, and a doting great-grandfather to sixteen great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Eileen Donnelly of Sacramento, California, and a host of other family and friends who will remember him fondly.
Graveside services are 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at Union Cemetery near Longview with Pastor Austin Wyler officiating. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Ric Gillespie, Bill Gillespie, Steven Frazier, Brandon Whitesell, Nate Whitesell, Trenton Frazier, Tristan Gillespie and Marc Gillespie.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. at the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri. Memorials are being directed to St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital c/o the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.
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