Ruth B. Gillespie

SOUTH PORTLAND - Ruth B. Gillespie, 83, of South Portland, died peacefully October 8, 2011 at the Gosnell Hospice House in Scarborough. She was born in South Portland on February 12, 1928. She was the youngest of three daughters of Carl J and Elizabeth Flaherty Ward. Ruth attended local schools and was a graduate of South Portland High School. On July 31, 1948 she married Douglas Gillespie. Ruth was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker. Ruth's greatest passion was her family and many, many friends. She was a communicant of St. Maximilian Kolbe Church. Over the years, Ruth enjoyed many activities including, camping, golf, square dancing, travel, dancing and holiday celebrations. Ruth was a lifelong learner. She enjoyed playing bridge, crafts, computers, writing poetry and painting. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 57 years, Douglas Gillespie and two sisters. Survivors include her three daughters, Jo Ellen Bryant and her husband Vaughn of Standish, Debra Bailey of Portland, Diane Sterling and her husband James of Scarborough; two sons, Carl Gillespie and his wife Julie of Standish, Jon Gillespie of South Portland; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to her two longtime medical guardian angels, Dr. Wendy Cathcart and Dr. Thomas Ryan. Visiting hours will be held 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday October 11, 2011 at Conroy-Tully Crawford South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. Prayers will be recited at 9:15 a..m. Wednesday at the South Portland Chapel followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 150 Black Point Road, Scarborough. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland. Those desiring may make donations to: Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 US Route 1 STE 1, Scarborough, Maine 04074 or to Project Grace, c/o St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 150 Black Point Road, Scarborough, Maine 04074. Online Condolences for Ruth Gillespie