James W. Gillespie

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**Obituary for James W. Gillespie**

James W. Gillespie, a beloved son, brother, and dedicated father and grandfather, passed away on July 23, 2026, at the age of 80, at his residence.

Born on June 12, 1946, in Belfast, Ohio, Jim lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and love for his family and community. He was the son of the late Paul and Virginia (Rhoads) Gillespie. Beside his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, John Gillespie; three brothers, Gerald Newman, Larry Newman and Loran Gillespie; sister, Jessica Siders.

Jim was a proud graduate of Belfast High School and spent his life in agriculture, working as a lifelong farmer. He was also known for his expertise in various trades, including stints at Irwin Auger Bit, Crop Production, and an auto body shop, eventually owning his own excavation business. His strong work ethic and commitment to his craft exemplified the values he cherished.

A longtime member of the Sugartree Ridge Church of Christ, Jim found comfort and community in his faith. He also held several memberships in esteemed organizations, including Highland Lodge #38 F&AM, the Valley of Cincinnati Scottish Rite, York Rite Bodies, Hillsboro Chapter #40 of Royal Arch Masons, Hillsboro Council #16 Royal and Select Masons and Highland Commandery #31 Knights Templar; Hillsboro Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #1161.

Jim's interests extended beyond his work. He had an ardent passion for shooting pool and participated in the APA World Pool Championship in Las Vegas. He enjoyed the thrill of drag racing and found joy in watching classic western movies and reading western novels, bringing the American frontier to life in his imagination.

Jim is survived by his loving son, Michael "Mick" Gillespie, and daughter-in-law, Melissa Gillespie. He cherished his role as a grandfather to Cora Gillespie, Chad (Iceces) Gillespie, Megan (Jimmy) Gillespie, Jordan (Klay) Gillespie and Justin Gillespie, as well as a great-grandfather to Casey Mae Gillespie and Lucas Matthew Marshall. His siblings, Russell Newman and Ruth Morgan, several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends.

Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Sugartree Ridge Church of Christ, 2240 St. Rt. 136, Hillsboro, OH.

A Masonic Service will be conducted by by the Highland Lodge #38 F&AM at 4:00 P.M., followed by a Celebration of Life in his honor at Sugartree Ridge Church of Christ, conducted by Danny Dodds.

To sign Jim's quest book, please visit www.thompsonfuneralhomes.com., or to leave a like, comment or share, visit the Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Care Facebook Page.

Family suggests that contributions be made in Jim's memory to the Sugartree Ridge Church of Christ.