Paul Gettys Gillespie

It has been four years since my dear friend Dr. Paul G. Gillespie transitioned from the temporal to the eternal. Believing that God is able to complete what he initiated through creation and redemption, it is my firm belief that he is experiencing the dimensions of eternal life that we on Earth can only imagine. I miss digesting his emails, reading/reflecting on his sermons delivered at his Congregational Church in Asheville, and enjoying his personable nature whenever we connected in person....

While time races forward like a NASCAR event, it must never cause one to forget those who have imprinted our lives in immeasurable ways while they were alive. May 10 marks three years since Paul pulled anchor and sailed to a new shore. I thank God daily for Paul's con- tribution to my life and ask that He bless his memory. May he continue to rest in peace! Sincerely, CWB, Maryville, TN.

Two years removed from Paul's death, warm memories continue to percolate, confirming his credentials as a prophet whose work and influence in seeking racial justice continue to bear fruit. Only a God-inspired, transcendent cause would have such an enduring effect upon society. And I feel sure that as Paul looks down upon current events, he is elated at the progress that the civil rights movement continues to make (even amid
periodic setbacks). While the struggle for racial justice...

On this first anniversary of Paul's death, I recall the
time over lunch when we discussed contemporary preaching. He referenced an earlier meeting that he had with a group of theology students and quizzed them on their role models for preaching today. They rattled off the names of some preachers, mostly high profile figures who regularly appeared on television. He was disappointed (and so was I) that sizzle and not substance seemed to be the drawing card of these young theologians. I...

When I attended the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Paul served as Fellow to ethics professor Dr. Clayton Waddell. Years later I learned that he was neighbor to my future wife's aunt. We reconnected after almost 50 years and he performed our marriage. Paul was a deep thinker, faithful proclaimer of the Christian Faith, an ardent advocate for racial justice, and an exemplary churchman. I grieve his passing. And I give God thanks that I knew him. May he rest in peace. Sincerely, Dr....

When I attend the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, Paul served as fellow to ethics professor Dr. Clayton Waddell. Later, I learned that he was neighbor to my future wife's aunt. After almost 50 years we renewed our friendship and he performed the marriage. Paul was a deep thinker, committed to the proclamation of the Christian Faith, and a leader in seeking racial justice for all. Born of missionary parents in China, he distinguished himself as an active churchman and Christian...

Dr. Gillespie performed our marriage ceremony almost 50 years ago while a minister at Takoma Baptist Church, Washington, DC. and will be remembered for his many kindnesses and years of service to our congregation. Our sincere sympathies go out to his family and friends.


Anna and James W. (Bill) Connellee

Condolences to the family and friends of Paul Gillespie. I worked with Paul at Takoma Baptist Church, Washington, DC as Co-ordinator of Community Ministries in the late sixties. The influence of Paul and this church have continued to be driving forces in my passion for social ministries. May this same Spirit that motivated Paul's life comfort and guide us.

Rev. Sandra Harvey Richardson