James Gillespie

James Ronald Gillespie

​​May 12th, 1947 – April 28th 2023

James Ronald Gillespie was born on May 12th, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio. His parents were James William and Erma Lee Evans. James was referred to as “Butch” by family and “Jim” by friends. During his teen years, Jim worked at his father’s many grocery stores which built his strong work ethics and social skills.

Jim graduated from John Adams High School in 1965 and went on to attend Ohio Institute of Technology (renamed DeVry Institute of Technology) and worked for the federal government managing the defense logistics agency.

Jim married Ruth E. Mcgary and had a child, a daughter, Jenevette Rochelle. Jim was adored by other friend’s and family’s children with his silly antics like his lip singing performances to songs from the radio. His friends would remember him as a storyteller, mostly tales of his experiences throughout his life. He was also a good listener and could give good advice. Jim also gave of himself and donated. He was a rare blood type donor and donated monthly to St. Judes Children Foundation.

James love of sports had no limits. He played baseball and golf. He knew every football, baseball, and basketball team from College to Pro. He stayed a hardcore Cleveland’s fan. Jim retired at the age of 55 and enjoyed traveling around the world to places like Alaska, Australia, Canada, Hawaii, and Mexico to name a few.

Jim, when diagnosed with cancer moved permanently from Amelia, Ohio to Henderson, Neveda In 2018. He fought long and hard to beat cancer and he fought very well. In April of 2023, Jim passed away of natural causes at the age of 75 at his residence. He will be missed by his surviving family, Brother -in- Law, W. L. Spears, sister Gilda, niece Katrionne Baldwin and spouse Scott, sister Carla Gillespie, nephew in-law Stephen Flores, niece Ashley, grand-nephew Gabriel, Long time partner Linda Padua and her daughters Phyllis and Elizabeth. James’ Daughter Jenevette Rochelle Tate, and grandson Zachary James Gillespie.

Memorial Services are on hold while the family arranges for a location. Jim’s family and friends are located in several states; Jim’s family wants to find the best area for all to attend. Please email Jenevette at Jrtate0325@gmail.com or phone 928-249-0255 for more information concerning memorial services.