James P. Gillespie's Obituary
James Patrick Gillespie, 87, of Lewes, Delaware, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026. Born on January 7, 1939, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, he was the beloved son of the late Anthony Gillespie and Nora Gillespie (Doherty).
Jim was a devoted husband to Lois Gillespie (Caddoo), with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership. He was a proud and loving father to James P. Gillespie Jr., Daniel Gillespie, Elizabeth DePadova, and Sara DePadova. He was predeceased by his cherished daughter, Patricia Gillespie.
He was a treasured grandfather to Shannon, Shaun, Sarah, and Sherlyn, and a loving great-grandfather to Patrick, Connor, Lane, Lucas, Levi, and Trip. Loving uncle to Karen Dwyer and Kevin Brennan. He is also survived by his beloved “girl,” Kiwi, his cherished bird and constant companion. Jim was predeceased by his siblings, Mary Brennan, John Gillespie, Anthony Gillespie, and Bridgitt Boyle.
Jim dedicated 35 years of his professional life as a Principal Accountant with PSEG, where he was respected for his integrity, diligence, and steady leadership. Beyond his career, he was a faithful member of Westminster Presbyterian Church. He also generously gave his time as a volunteer at New Life Thrift Shop and at Beebe Healthcare’s Same Day Surgery Center, reflecting his quiet commitment to serving his community.
Jim will be remembered for his devotion to family, his strong work ethic, his faith, and the quiet generosity that defined his life. His love extended not only to his family and friends, but to the small joys of everyday life that meant so much to him.
A visitation will be held at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, Delaware 19958, on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with a luncheon to follow onsite at the church.
The service will also be live streamed for those unable to attend. To view the service, please visit the church’s website at https://westminster-rehoboth.org and click the “Watch Our Live Stream” button.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund or to your favorite charity.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute page.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMNTS BY 10:00 AM ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2026, TO OUR LEWES LOCATION.
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