In Loving Memory

Joseph Gillespie
October 14, 1967 — August 8, 2026
Joseph Gillespie, a beloved son, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026. Born on October 14, 1967, in Bennettsville, South Carolina, Joseph lived a life woven with love and kindness. He was the cherished son of the late John Brown and Betty Glaspie, who survives him in Clio, South Carolina.
Joseph will be fondly remembered by his loving daughter, Jomia Smith of Laurel Hill, North Carolina, who was a source of great pride and joy in his life. He was a devoted father and an adoring grandfather to one grandchild, who was the light of his life. His legacy of love continues through them.
Joseph's heart was as expansive as his family, which includes his brother, Charles Galaspie of Brooklyn, New York; two aunts, Elizabeth Lloyd of Brooklyn, New York, and Lisa Galapie of Bennettsville, South Carolina; and two uncles, Myers (Joe) Gillespie and Tommie Galaspie, both of Clio, South Carolina. He also leaves behind a multitude of cousins, nieces, and nephews who will forever treasure their memories of him.
Predeceased by his sister and father, Joseph's enduring memory is a testament to the strength and resilience of familial bonds. His spirit will continue to inspire and guide those he left behind.
A service to honor Joseph's life will be held on August 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Bethea's Funeral Home, located at 123 Main St, Bennettsville, South Carolina. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of the beautiful life he lived and the indelible mark he left on their hearts.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, in Joseph's memory. This gesture will continue his legacy of compassion and generosity.
Joseph's family expresses a special message from his daughter, Jomia, who writes, "When tomorrow starts without you and you're not here to see another sunrise there will be tears in my eyes. I know you couldn't stay another day: to laugh, to love, to work, or play. Your parting left a void, I'll try and fill it with remembered joy. A laugh shared, a hug and kiss. Ah yes, these things I too will miss. I know if you could've stayed you would've. We all have our time. I just wished that you had time to say goodbye and give me one last hug, even a gentle snug. I am here left without a parent, but I thank God that you were here as long as you were and the memories you left for me. I'll make you two proud of me."
Joseph Gillespie's life was a tapestry of warmth, laughter, and unwavering love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.
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