Christopher-Gillespie-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Chas. Peter Nagel Funeral Directors

Christopher Gillespie

New York, New York

Mar 31, 1965 – Dec 15, 2017

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BORN
March 31, 1965
DIED
December 15, 2017
LOCATION
New York, New York

Obituary

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Chas. Peter Nagel Funeral Directors Obituary

Chris GillespieChris Gillespie, a jazz pianist of unique style who performed regularly at The Carlyle Hotel's Bemelmans Bar, died on December 15, 2017 in New York City. He was 52.Born in Munich, Germany to a Dutch father and Tanzanian mother, Mr. Gillespie grew up in a foster family that loved...

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Chris was both ethereal and down-to-earth at once. He radiated joy and possibility. He lit up the room like no other and made us feel we were part of something specialwhich, of course, we were. We first saw him at Bemelmans in 2002 and kept on going back to see him until 2017. What a beautiful gift to the world he was.
x o x Gil & Laura

My wife, daughter and so many friends always accompanied us to see and hear Chris sing and play his music. Our fondest memories of Bemelmans Bar were during our vists to listen to his most elegant voice and music. His personality filled the room as his fingers tickled the ivorys with comforting sounds taking you from all reality to a world of no cares and problems. Chris, Im sure we were just a few of many, many people you made smile for a little while, thank you for those audacious...

I only heard of Chris's passing while attending mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel, and sang with him at Zion-St. Mark's Lutheran Church.

This is an insurmountable loss.

The first time I heard Chris sing and play the piano at the Carlyle, I fell in love with his voice and exquisite style that incorporated popular music and classical. I associate Chris with elegance,a lyrical and romantic style as well as gentleness and love. I am so sorry I won't be able to see him again. But-luckily, I will play the recordings of his music forever and ever! Thank you,Chris,for bringing ua such joy.

Dear Chris: You were a safe spot in the hubbub and craziness of life as it is. We could stop into Bemelmans to spend an evening with you and leave our "life baggage" outside the door. For the time we were enjoying your talents and your joy, we were transported to a place of peace and joy. When we left, we had to "claim our baggage" but it was always lighter and easier to carry. You will be missed by many. We can't imagine Belemans without you. The experience was so much more than your...

Dear Chris, It is difficult to say goodbye. Your talent, generosity and infectious smile were gifts that you shared so freely. Whenever you performed, you lit up a room with your presence and brought immeasurable joy to us all. We miss you incredibly, but our memories are resilient and years of friendship and shared experiences will remain with us forever. Our love and prayers to you, Patricia and Andre.

We came many times to see Chris at the Carlyle. We specifically came to see him play - we will always miss him.

Chris,
Thank you for all the beautiful music and for your wonderful spirit. You will be missed more than words could ever express.

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.