Donald J. Gillespie Jr.

Don's leadership was like a "spirit of '76" to the Bicentennial Band; a relatively rag-tag bunch of citizen musicians who'd follow him (most of the time) in pursuit of music-making
and having fun!
Thanks for the memories,
Susan and Bob

Mr."G" made the LHS Band and my high school years wonderful .( I graduated in 1971). Mrs. Gillespie it was nice to see you at my mother and father's home in Brooksby Village. I am sorry about your loss.--Brenda (Millican) Tully

The Frank and Helen DiGiammarino family have fond memories of "Mr". Gillespie. He was not only a teacher of music and band conductor ,but a friend in many ways. We cherish our memories of him and Lexington will not be the same without him. Our sympathy to Mary and his children.
Frank and Helen DiGiammarino

i have so many fond memories of Mr.G in they ears i was in band(graduated 1973) Mr. & Mrs. were both great teachers for me. I often thought i was getting away with skipping classes or fooling around but Mr.G. always got wise to me....my prayers are with you all..you have been thought of often inthepast years..i even saw and chatted with Mr.WHite when he attended an elementary band program... all 3 of my children were strong participants in band in burlington..all due to the fondmemories i had...

Dear Mary,

We were so sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Gillespie on Monday. Although we were never involved in the music program at LHS, I am from a musical family. Both my mom and aunt were in the band with Mr. Gillespie, and were grateful they had that opportunity. We also enjoyed being your next door neighbors from 1998-2001, and will never forget how welcome you both made us feel there.

-Julie and Randall Seed

Sincerest condolences to the family. Music education in the Lexington Schools has given me a lifetime of pleasure.

It was with great sadness that I read here of Mr. G's death. He managed to build up a music department which rivaled many colleges'.

I also remember him taking the time to write me a thank you note for some art-work I did for the band (I, as a viola player, couldn't actually be in the band...).

I had the privilege of seeing him one last time in the summer of 2008. I'm glad I had that last chance.

Miller S. Lessell,
LHS '76

Although I have not seen Don in over 50 years, I clearly remember him as a fine, warm, compassionate man. My sincerest condolences to his family.

To Mary and the Gillespie Family - You have my deepest sympathy. I have very warm memories of Don. I was a junior at Lexington High School when he first arrived. We had a rat tag group but he encouraged us along despite our lack of talent. 30 years later I watched my sons march in the April 19th parade with Don leading the band. What he accomploished in that time was amazing. He taught an entire generation of children, and yes, adults to learn to play and love music. He did it with grace...