Theodore Roy Gillespie

Theodore Roy Gillespie, 77, of Massillon, passed away peacefully at home on March 6, 2024, after a long struggle with declining health.

He was born on February 22, 1947 to late Theodore and Cora Olive (Collier) Gillespie of Massillon, OH.

He was a graduate of Washington High School. Ted retired from Republic Steel. He was a very unique man, always willing to help others. He was dedicated to his family, and enjoyed making memories with his grandchildren. Theodore was the second in a line of five family members to carry his name. Ted was an avid chess player, and was a regular at the local coffee shop, where he shared his love of chess, by teaching others the game. He enjoyed his dogs, taking them to the dog park and meeting people. Ted had an extremely large library of books and podcasts, enjoying sharing them with others. He was always a welcome guest at area restaurants, because of his kindness to staff. He gave everything he did his all, including tennis, biking, chess, roller skating, and work. He had interesting personal hobbies, such as inventing his own version of 4-dimensional geometry, and used marbles to create intricate designs and drawings. Ted enjoyed the best of things in life, from music, clothes, food, travel, and building his own bike to his personal specifications.

Theodore is survived by his loving children, Theodore "Teddy" (Jen) Gillespie and Ann Papas; grandchildren, Spiro Papas, Theo Papas, Emily Gillespie, Teddy Gillespie, Michael Gillespie, Carley Gillespie, Hannah Wingerter, and Luke Wingerter; great-grandchild, Theodore R. Gillespie; sisters, Linda Morris and Janice Weston; close family friend, Marie Lyall; and his extended family of neighbors and friends. Without all of your help, dad would not have been able to remain at home like he wanted. We cannot thank you enough.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart, and loving wife of over 50 years, Rebecca "Becky" (Lewis) Gillespie.

A graveside service will take place on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 10:30 am in Massillon Cemetery on Erie St S., Massillon, OH, with Shannon Ensign-Spillios officiating.

The family will hold a Celebration of Theodore's Life on Saturday, March 9, 2024, 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm at Unity of Massillon, 4016 Wales AVE NW, Massillon, OH 44646.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Stark County Humane Society, The Wilderness Center, or an animal shelter of the donors choice.