Terry Joe Gillespie, 78, of Gainesville passed away June 15, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family following an extended illness.

He was born in Gainesville to the late Albert and Lucille Gillespie, July 26, 1947. He served in the Army from 1966-1969 as a Staff Sergeant in the 3rd infantry division, 10th engineer battalion.  He was self-employed and later retired from the family business. He was a simple man who enjoyed fishing, camping, southern gospel music and most of all being with his family.  He was a member of Lebanon Methodist Church.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert & Lucille Gillespie; brothers, Larry, Jerry, Alton and Kenny Gillespie; sons, Dwayne Gillespie and Brandon Griffin.

Survivors include his wife of 24 years, Jenny Gillespie, Gainesville; sons and daughters-in-law, Phillip and Amy Gillespie, Gillsville, Matthew and Olivia Gillespie, Clermont , Randy and Jennifer Griffin, Gainesville, Rusty and Karen Griffin, Gillsville; grandchildren, Brayden and Ellie Gillespie, Carter and Brock Gillespie,  Easton Gillespie, Will Griffin and Maggie Banks, Abby and Emma Griffin, Rosemary and Thomas Griffin; great-grandchildren, Brynn and Stetson Gillespie; sister, Vickie Kennedy; aunt, Barbara Propes; special caretaker, Michelle Scott and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Little Davenport Funeral Home.

Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 p.m., Friday, June 19, 2026 at Lebanon Methodist Church.  The Rev. Larry Buffington, Rev. Jason Buffington, Rev. Phillip Gillespie, and Rev. Don McKelvey will officiate.  

The burial will be at Lebanon Church Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be donated to Lebanon Campground, Gillsville.

Those wishing to leave condolences may do so at www.littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home are in charge of arrangements.