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Bobby Ray Gillespie
1953 - 2025
BORN
1953
DIED
2025
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Bobby Gillespie Obituary
April 26, 1953 - September 6, 2025
Bobby Ray Gillespie of Vinton, Va., passed away peacefully at home, with his wife and daughter by his side, on the morning of Saturday, September 6, 2025, at the age of 72.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Annie Gillespie; in-laws, Fred and Anna Driver; sister, Katherine "Kathy" Basham; paternal grandparents, Joel and Lucy Gillespie; and maternal grandparents, Thomas and Callie Guilliams.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 43 wonderful years, Lanae D. Gillespie; his daughter, Kristen Dunagan and son-in-law, Ryan, and grandson, Owen; and brother, William "Billy" Gillespie and Sandra Hartman. His extended family includes Gary Basham, David and Hester Driver, Annette and Rudy Taylor, Donnie and Sherri Driver, and their children and grandchildren.
Bobby was born on April 26,1953, in Roanoke, Va. He graduated from Jefferson High School and attended Virginia Military Institute before taking a position with the National Park Service. He devoted his career to working for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Growing up, he was a member of Ninth Street Church of the Brethren and later became a member of Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church.
Bobby enjoyed reading and watching science-fiction, westerns, and nature shows. He also took great joy in playing with his grandson, Owen, and spending time with family. He enjoyed exploring Roanoke's many roads while listening to country music and traveling whenever possible.
The family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of Good Samaritan Hospice for their care and comfort.
A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Oakey's Vinton Chapel. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, in the chapel of Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church and will be led by Pastor John Hemming.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church. Condolences may be shared with his family by visiting www.Oakeys.com.
Oakey's Funeral Service - Vinton Chapel
Vinton, VA (540) 982-2221
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