Gillespie

Ruth Marie Gillespie, 100, of Shipman, Ill., fought a heroic battle to the end of 100 years. She died peacefully on June 23, 2023. Ruth was was born on March 8, 1923, the daughter of Sidney William and Marjory (Leak) Reno. Marjory died following childbirth. Sidney married Genevia Leak who soon became the mother Ruth would know and love. On Aug. 24, 1940, Ruth married Lloyd Gillespie. He preceded her in death in 1988.

Ruth's life was not only a homemaker, but following the return from war, Lloyd and Ruth were active with the American Legion. Along with raising children, Ruth worked at the Shipman Lumber Company. She also spent time working at the Red Cross Blood Bank. A highlight of her life was the partnership with her mother Genevia in purchasing a small farm. Ruth and Lloyd would go to the farm nearly every evening to feed calves and pigs. Ruth's brothers lived close enough to help with answering questions.

Ruth is survived by a daughter, Janet (Robert) Kykendal of Hillsboro, Mo .; sons, Larry (Sandy) Gillespie of Shipman, Ill., Gerry Gillespie of Bunker Hill; brother, Don (Joan) Reno of Medora; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings, Russell and Virginia Reno, Mary and Ernie Sons; daughter, Sondra Marie; grandson, Gerald Gillespie; and a daughter-in-law, Debbie Gillespie.

Public gravesite services were held Tuesday, June 27, at Shipman Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to Shipman Food Pantry or the American Red Cross. Condolences may be left online at http://www.kravanyafuneral.com. Kravanya Funeral Home in Bunker Hill was in charge of the arrangements.