Harold Gillespie

Harold Gillespie entered eternal rest on April 12, 2025, at 72. Born on September 12, 1952, to Perry Sr. and Esther Gillespie, Harold lived a life marked by love, generosity, and quiet strength. A proud and devoted Christian, Harold carried a deep belief that love could heal, restore, and overcome all things — a belief he lived out every day through his kindness and unwavering support for others.

He found joy in life's simple pleasures: time spent with family and friends, the satisfaction of a well-manicured yard, the hum of an engine he repaired with his own hands— a talent he began developing as a teenager-and cheering on his favorite sports teams. His laughter, patience, and presence brought comfort and light to those around him.

Harold graduated from Charleston High School in 1970 and built a fulfilling life in Aurora, IL, where he lived for 40 years and raised his four children. After retiring from Caterpillar Tractor Company, he returned to Charleston, MO, to be near his beloved mother. He remained a constant source of strength and service to his community- a loyal father, brother, uncle, and friend who was always the first to show up when someone needed help.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Demetrac (L.C.) Aldridge of Joliet, IL; Kenyota Rodgers and Ayanna Mitchell of Aurora, IL; son Kermit (Patricia) Gillespie of Charleston, MO; and his cherished (13) grandchildren and (16) great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind seven devoted siblings-Perry Jr. Gillespie, Bitha (Charlie) Tucker, Kasandra Jackson, and Dwayne (Jackie) Gillespie of Flint, MI, Shirlyne (James) Smith and Nanette Turner of Charleston, MO; and Theodia (Henry Charles) Clay of Aurora, IL-as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, his beloved Rodgers Family and lifelong friends who were touched by his steady presence and open heart.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Perry and Esther Gillespie; his brother, Roy Lee Gillespie; sister, Sharon Stiger; and his bonus brother, Jimmie Clay, who no doubt greeted him with open arms as he entered his eternal home with our Heavenly Father.

Though he may no longer walk among us, Harold's spirit lives on in every life he touches. His love, lessons, and legacy will continue to echo for generations to come.

Friends may call Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. until the funeral hour of 12:00 noon at the United Methodist Church in Charleston, Missouri. Interment will immediately follow in Oak Grove Cemetery with the Williams Funeral Homes in charge of arrangements.