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BORN
1945
DIED
2023
James Gillespie Obituary
James Gillespie
January 24, 1945
December 25, 2023
James "Jim" Gillespie 78, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away Monday, December 25, 2023 after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Jim was born in Georgia in 1945. He moved to Colorado when he was eleven years old and put down roots in Colorado Springs with his family where he spent the rest of his days. Jim went to St. Mary's Catholic High School. There he met the love of his life, Carolyn Floyd at the young age of 15. They were married in 1964 and recently celebrated their 59th Wedding Anniversary in November.
Jim spent his younger years coaching basketball at Sacred Heart and working as a referee for Parks and Recreation. He went to UCCS for a number of years, and eventually started a career at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Civil Service as a Contract Manager. He spent 30 years working in Civil Service. In 2005, Jim began work for the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA). He retired in 2010. His charming personality and skillful networking made him a valued employee and friend.
When Jim was 21 years old, he discovered the second love of his life—Golf. At night, he practiced hitting hundreds of golfballs in his basement, honing his skills for the game. Jim was a celebrated member of the USAFA Eisenhower Golf Club, where he spent many years in the Eisenhower Men's Golf Association (EMGA) as a Charter Member and a "regular" on the golf course. His passion for the sport led to years of customizing golf clubs for himself and his friends. He was a talented and dedicated player.
Jim and Carolyn had three daughters during their marriage; Amy, Erin, and Sarah. Jim is survived by his wife Carolyn and his daughters Amy Adkins (Ed), Erin Gillespie, and Sarah Evans (Philip). He has four beautiful grandchildren (Taylor, Devin, Finnigan, and Asher) and numerous extended family and friends.
Jim Gillespie enjoyed old music, classic crooners, good food and hearty laughter. He loved his family and his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. His presence on this Earth will be greatly missed.
Please join us on Saturday, January 6, 2024 for a Memorial in celebration of Jim's life. Please call a family member for details.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Gillespie
Chuck Daly
April 24, 2025
I was so sad learning of Jim's passing. He was a good guy who could take a joke. He proved it when myself and another cop pretended to arrest him for something he didn't do. It was cruel but he laughed it off
So sad for Carolyn and his daughters. Rest in peace Jim
Ron Sharpe
June 15, 2024
Dear Carolyn. My heart goes out to you and the girls. I'll always remember with great fondness the wonderful times as young families then later after the kids grew up. Jim was a good man who just happened to be a lot of fun and funny. My best friend for many years. I'm grateful for the many memories. Rest in peace my friend. Ron Sharpe
Joanne Lehmann Huether
January 20, 2024
So sorry for your loss. I have memories of Carolyn, Jim and the girls from my visits to Colorado Springs.
Joanne Lehmann Huether
Bonnye Garman
January 20, 2024
So sorry to hear of Jim´s passing. He was such a nice man.
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Michael J Lehman
January 8, 2024
Only the fondest memories of Jim. I remember a glad hand and great smile. I am sad for his families great loss. God bless them.
Wendy and Chuck Auck
January 6, 2024
Carolyn and family, we wish you only the best of memories. Labor Day breakfast at Darcy and Lenny's will not be quite the same. A fine man... we will remember your Jim.
Bernadette and Joe Tighe
January 4, 2024
I can't even tell you how sad I am. He was the funniest guy I ever met. He had the most wonderful family ever. I have lost touch with everyone since we moved to Arizona permanently ten years ago. I cherish the memories that our families shared together. We don't get to CO very often since none of our adult children live there. Just know I will hang on to the great times we spent with our Colorado friends! You were an amazing couple and I know he enjoyed those grandchildren! So happy that our paths crossed!
Bernie and Joe Tighe
Terri Abell Hohl
January 3, 2024
Dear Carolyn.
I am so sorry to hear about Jim. I wish I could take your pain away, it has to be so difficult.
I have fond memories of you and Jim and the great times we all had together in high school.
You and Jim were and are a perfect, attractive couple.
Jim sends his regards. He said your Jim was extraordinary.
Best wishes always,
Terri Abell Hohl
judy gray
January 3, 2024
Carolyn,Amy,Erin, and Sara. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time. Oh the Memories- our first apartment, then the gate between houses. Watching our kids, BBQ´s and of course there was always golf talk between the boys. Jim was such a dear person to everyone . My heart aches for you. Take care old friend. Judy G
Charlie Pike
January 3, 2024
Jim -- You were the best friend a guy could ever ask for. I shall miss you so and I am proud to call you my friend.
Lawrence and Marie Lehmann
January 2, 2024
Marie and I are saddened to learn of Jim's passing. We enjoyed the times we were together visiting in Charleston, SC or taking a trip through Europe floating down a river and visiting many old cities. He was always able to locate the one Irish bar in each town. Jim was always able to put things into unique perspective. We will miss his sense of humor and of family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Carolyn and family. Marie and Lawrence Lehmann
Mike Biondini
January 2, 2024
Jim Gillespie was truly a wonderful man. I had the privilege of first meeting Jim in high school.
Jim was part of a remarkable senior class...I was a lowly freshman.
Jim's warm, welcoming personality helped me to transition
Jim will truly be missed by so many. My prayers are with Jim and his family. God Bless Jim Gillespie .
Mike Biondini
SMHS'66
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