On June 7, 2013, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Herbert Preston Gillespie, of Radford, went to his heavenly home. He was born on March 5, 1929, to the late Bertie and William Gillespie. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Phyllis Meredith, Joyce Bowen, and Janet Meredith; brothers, Harold Gillespie, William "Garfield" Gillespie, and James Gillespie.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Bonnie Gillespie; sons, Phil and wife, Vicky Gillespie, Darryl Gillespie and fiance, Jamie Mannon, and Brent Gillespie; daughter, Laura and husband, Jeff Helms; eight grandchildren, Laura Beth Gillespie and boyfriend, Frankie Howell, Seth Gillespie, Alex Gillespie, Taylor Helms and boyfriend, Brandon Woolwine, Logan Helms, and Cole Helms; great-grandchildren, Victoria and Elizabeth Ratcliff; sister and brother-in-law, Travis and Freda Quesenberry; sister-in-law, Betty Gillespie; special cousin, Peggy Palmer; and special nephew, Terry Harrison; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Herbert was born in Ada, West Virginia and moved to Virginia, where he met his wife in December, 1954. Herbert worked for Hercules, "the Arsenal", for 38 years and he was a loyal member of Belview United Methodist Church. Herbert loved his church and camping friends. He always enjoyed dancing, music and traveling.
The funeral service will be held on Monday, June 10, 2013, at 2 p.m. at Belview United Methodist Church, Radford, with Pastor Bobbie Henley officiating. Interment will follow in Stanger Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends from noon until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Belview United Methodist Church, 3619 Onyx Drive, Radford VA 24141.
Special thanks to Carilion Hospice for their wonderful care of Herbert. Arrangements by Horne Funeral Service.


Published in Roanoke Times on June 9, 2013