ROBERT L. GILLESPIE

November 12, 1942 – May 30, 2018

If you needed the definition of a good heart and an example of a generous and loyal friend, you'd need look no further than Bob Gillespie of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, formerly of Enfield, Connecticut who passed away Wednesday, May 30. Son of Robert and Helena Reynolds Gillespie, Bob was born on November 12, 1942 in Troy, New York. Following his schooling and a tour in the US Navy, Bob settled in Enfield, Connecticut where for 47 years he was employed as a master machinist for United Gear, Suffield, CT. After retirement, Bob and wife Molly Granahan Gillespie, moved to New Smyrna Beach, FL where they wintered for several seasons before calling it their home for the past six years. Bob lived the good life on the Sun Coast, establishing and growing a valued circle of new friends, a tribute to the charisma of being a genuine and gracious person. He enjoyed an active and involved life with Molly hosting, and travelling to visit, friends and family. Bob will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Molly met Bob several years after the death of Bob's previous wife, Barbara. Prior to her death, Bob had dedicated many years as caregiver to Barbara. In addition to Barbara, Bob is preceded in death by brother, Terrence, grandson Matthew, and step-daughter Sheila Ward.

Surviving, in addition to wife, Molly, NSB, FL is his sister, Maureen Andrews (husband Hugh) of Chatham, MA and children, Bobby (wife, Ann Marie) of Enfield, CT; Kevin (wife, Kim) of Suffield, CT: Kenny (wife, Nichole) of Newbury, SC; Karen O'Hara (husband, James) of Rockwell, NC; Denise Gagnon (husband, Bill) of Beverly, MA; Charles Redin (wife, Jessica) of Flower Mound, TX; and Michelle Keane-Taylor (husband, Matt) of Stafford Springs, CT; as well as 21 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 6 from 6 – 8 PM at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapel, 61 South Road, Enfield, CT, with a funeral service at the same location on Thursday, June 7 at 9:00 AM followed by interment with military honors at Enfield Street Cemetery.

A remembrance and memorial service is also planned for July 11 in New Smyrna Beach.