Anita Gillespie

Anita Gillespie, a beloved soul who touched the hearts of many with her kindness and grace, passed away on August 3, 2024, in Bolivar, Tennessee. Born on July 21, 1960, in Jackson, Tennessee, Anita was a cherished daughter of Richard Lewis Gaither and Hazel Roberts Parham.

Anita led a fulfilling life as she embarked on a career as an administrative assistant at ICO Polymers before circumstances led to her becoming disabled. Her dedication and hard work left an indelible mark on all those she worked. Anita was not just a committed professional but also a devout member of the Porters Creek Baptist Church where she found solace and community.

In her free time, Anita immersed herself in her passions for crafting, art, painting, and singing. She found joy in these creative pursuits and shared her talents with those around her. Traveling was another love of hers despite the challenges, allowing her to create lasting memories filled with warmth and happiness.

Anita's greatest love was reserved for her family and grandchildren. She adored each moment spent with them and made sure they felt cherished and valued. In every interaction, Anita's love shone brightly, connecting generations with a bond that will forever remain unbroken.

She is survived by her loving husband Robert Gillespie of Middleton, whom she married on July 3, 1996; her dear children, Heather Elizabeth Arnold (Doug), Raymond Jerry Skinner III (Kristin), all of  Collierville, and Christopher Benjamin Skinner (Jill) of Bartlett; her caring sisters, Cathey Gaither Stephens (Mike) of Oakland and Linda Gaither Swindle (Tommy) of Murfreesboro; and 10 grandchildren.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Leslie Marie Roy in 2018 and her stepfather, Benjamin Franklin Parham.

Anita Gillespie's legacy lives on through the memories shared by those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

May she rest in peace, surrounded by the beauty of eternal love and serenity.  Memorial contributions in her name may be sent to the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org), the National Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) or the charity of the donor's choice.