James Curtis Gillespie, 91 of Bluefield, VA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at his home. Born in Jenkin Jones, WV, he was the son of the late Frank and Lina Gillespie.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife: Billie Jean Gillespie; his siblings: Frank Gillespie, Jr, Arnold Gillespie, John Gillespie, Gordon Gillespie, Carolyn Edwards and Sandra Thompson; his great-grandson: Matthew Stevens.
Curtis served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was previously employed by Pemco, where he retired. He was active in the community and served on the Tazewell County Board of Supervisors, the Clinch Valley Community Action Board and the Tazewell County Airport Authority. He was a proud member of the VFW Post 9696 and the American Legion, Pocahontas, VA. His passion was flying and was a private pilot for over 30 years.
He will be lovingly missed by his daughter: Debbie Stevens and husband, Greg; son: David Gillespie and wife, Mendy; grandson: Shannon Stevens and wife, Jessica; great-grandson: Elijah Stevens; brothers: Ernest Gillespie, Roger Gillespie and wife, Sandra; sister: Sharon York and her husband.
A service celebrating the life of Curtis will be held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Dudley Memorial Chapel at 2:00 P.M. with Minister Allen Roberson officiating. Burial will follow at Grandview Memory Gardens, where Military Rites will be conducted.
Friends may visit with the family Wednesday at Dudley Memorial from 1:00 P.M. until the hour of the service.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to MSA Home Health & Hospice, Vanessa Wright and Jessica Stevens, for all the care and support they provided.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to consider making contributions to VFW Post 9696, Bluefield, VA.
