Billy Martin Gillespie, 80, of Fairfield, PA, died peacefully on Friday, September 23, 2016, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born September 25, 1935, in East Gulf, WV, he was the son of the late Luther and Mabel (Payne) Gillespie. He was the devoted husband of Marlene (Shriner) Gillespie, to whom he was married for 36 years.
Billy was a Master Electrician and worked for Hull’s Electric in Gettysburg for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and traveling. He also liked to watch wrestling, John Wayne movies, game shows, and old episodes of “In the Heat of the Night” on TV. He loved visiting his longtime friend, Heinz Kramer, in Iowa. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Yvonne Gillespie of Lawrence, KS, Cynthia Marshall and husband Bruce of Fairfield, PA, and Sharon Gillespie and partner Rick Ray of Fairfield, PA; step-children, Angela Hewitt and husband Jerry of Thurmont, MD; Jeannie Springer and husband Donald of Fairfield, PA, and Donna Saylor and husband Thomas of Fairfield, PA; brother, Kenneth Gillespie and wife Sarah of Las Vegas, NV; sister, Karen Britt and husband Brad of Louisville, KY; 10 grandchildren, Jeremy, Michael, Kasondra, Raelei, Kayla, Shawna, Shya, Darian, Janice, and Jennifer; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sons, Dean and Alan Gillespie
A memorial service to celebrate Billy’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at MYERS-DURBORAW FUNERAL HOME, 210 W. Main St., Emmitsburg, MD, with Pastor Sally Griffin officiating. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens near Frederick. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home.