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1948 ~ 2011
Patricia Lynn Gillespie Smith, age 63, passed away Sunday November 27, 2011 after a courageous 22 1/2 year battle with breast cancer.
Pat was born on September 27, 1948. The first child born to Vern and Madeline (Midge) Gillespie. She was raised in Rose Park and lived there her entire life, attending Rose Park Elementary, Northwest Jr. High, and graduated from West High School in 1967. She worked for Litton Guidance and Control for nearly 20 years, where she made many lifelong friends.
Pat loved anything having to do with Disney, especially yearly trips with her grandchildren to Disneyland or Disneyworld. She also loved traveling, butterflies, pink tulips, sunflowers, Utah Jazz, and University of Utah Gymnastics. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and she could often be found on the sidelines supporting her daughters and grandchildren through many sporting events and competitions. She held on in the end so she could see and hold her twin great-grandbabies, who were born November 16, 2011.
Pat is survived by her mother, Madeline (Midge) Gillespie. Two daughters, Shelly (Marcus) Lederman and Chantele Broadwater. Six grandchildren, Jordan Beckstead, Andrew, Allison, Ashlee, Abbie and Adam Shepard. Two great-grandchildren Mia and Miles Shepard. Her brother Ken (Denise) Gillespie, sister Jan Mecham and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Also survived by our family dogs Madi, Bella, and Bentley. Proceeded in death by her father, Vern Gillespie.
The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. John Ward, and staff at Huntsman Cancer Institute. Millcreek Home Health Care and Hospice, especially her nurses Emily and Monica, for their amazing care of our mother during her last days. Special friends Karla Reading and Stephanie Zimmer for their support over the past 22 1/2 years. And to the wonderful members of the Rose Park Stake 4th ward.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Pat's memory to Huntsman Cancer Institute, 2000 Circle of Hope, SLC UT 84112 or Susan G Komen, www.komen.org.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 2, 2011, 11:00 a.m. at the Rose Park 4th Ward, (East Chapel) 760 N 1200 W. A viewing will be held Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the church and one hour prior to services on Friday. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.garnerfuneral.com
"I Hope You Dance"
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It's been over two years ... not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I miss you more now than ever. Life without you has been tough, for so many of us. You were the shoulder for all, and it's been hard not being able to use it. I try to be upbeat and positive, and for the most part I am. But I have struggled with anger, too. It's just not fair that you're gone. I don't think I will ever see or understand the "purpose" as to why you aren't here growing old with us. I love you so very much!!
Chana
December 30, 2013
It's been a month. One major holiday. Many tears. So much reminds me of you. I miss you more and more each day. I love you!!
Chana
December 28, 2011
Midge,
I'm so sorry to hear about Patty losing her battle with cancer. I know how difficult it has been for you. My prayers are with you and your family.
Marsha Birkes Bryan
December 9, 2011
I have such fond memories of "Patty", she was my best friend and constant companion until my parents divorced and I was forced to move away from Rose Park in 1960. What fun we had playing "night games" and solitare. My love goes out to Madaline & Kenny and to her family I never got the chance to meet and know. Thank you to whomever accepted my friend request and let me know of our loss.
Jana Huston Casebolt
Jana Huston Casebolt
November 30, 2011
Dear Kenny and Family, I'm so very sorry for your loss. She sounds like an Angel, now she has her wings. My the Love of Christ be with you now and forever.
My Deepest Sympathy
Debbie Malin
Deb Malin
November 30, 2011
to shelly
im sorry about you loss and god will always take care of your mother i
need in peace
debbie gansereit
November 30, 2011
To my sweet family;
What a beautiful woman our mom, daughter, sister, aunt, grandma, and finally GREAT grandma she was. I will miss her so much! Her spunk, her wit, and her hugs. No matter how sick she was, she could always give a great hug. She did hang in there to meet Miles and Mia and too have one more Thanksgiving with her family before it was time to catch up with Grandpa.
She fought a battle like no other. Everytime I see pink, I think of and will always think of my auntie. When spring rolls around again, I will have pots of pink flowers in her memory.
Aunt Pat you were full of courage and faith. Even at the worst of times, you were able to pull a smile. I love you so much!! Please hug and kiss grandpa for me. I'm sure the two of you are dancing and will soon be fishing in the heavens.
XOXOXOX
Mindy
Mindy Garza
November 30, 2011
Chantele, Madeline & Jordan,
I was sad to hear about Pat yesterday. What a valiant fight she made. She was a great lady. I know how much she loved all of you. I pray that you'll feel comfort and peace during this hard time. I'm glad that you have each other--you're a strong family.
Ann Syphus
November 30, 2011
I don't know you and you don't know me but in a way I know what you have been through during your long journey with breast cancer. You see, I too, am a survivor. 22 1/2 yrs!!!!! You would have thought you had beat it, but this ugly disease never gives up and you never know when it will strike it's ugly head again. I want to congratulate you for your fight and let you know that those of us that are left behind will continue your fight. Rest in peace. You've earned it!!!
Kathy Lloyd
November 30, 2011
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