Morgan Gillespie

1988 - 2025

Morgan Elizabeth Gillespie, age 37, of Saltville, Virginia, was taken from us far too soon on August 16, 2025. She was born on June 18, 1988, at Smyth County Community Hospital. Morgan was a loving mother, daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, and friend. She was a bubbly, free spirited, redhead, who could light up any room she walked into. Her smile and laughter were contagious, and she had a natural way of making people feel comfortable and loved. To her family and friends, Morgan was "Human Sunshine" warm, bright, and always full of life. She dedicated her life to caring for others, both in her personal life and through her work as a mental health counselor with New Hope Support Services. She had a servant's heart, showing compassion and strength to those who were struggling, always ready to listen, encourage, and lift others up. Morgan loved deeply and fiercely. She was loyal to those she loved and never hesitated to stand by them.

Morgan had a soft spot for animals, often taking in strays and giving them the love, they deserved. She put the needs of others before her own, whether it was family, friends, or even a stranger in need. Her free-spirited nature meant she lived life with joy and openness. She found happiness in moments shared with those she loved, and in spreading kindness wherever she went. She was compassionate, strong, fearless and full of energy someone who left an impact on everyone she met.

She had a passion for basketball and was one of Northwood's most dedicated supporters, cheering on athletics at all levels. Morgan played a special role in the 2016 Lady Panthers' unforgettable undefeated season and state championship a memory she held close to her heart and proudly celebrated. Morgan also loved going to the beach it was her "happy place"

Morgan's spirit will live on in the love she gave, the laughter she shared, and the countless lives she touched. She will be remembered not just for what she did, but for who she was a beautiful soul who made the world brighter simply by being in it.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Elizabeth and Andrew Frye; her grandparents, Charles and Elsie Gillespie; aunts. Brenda, Martha, and Celestine Gillespie; and her cousin/ brother, Tommy-Jon Hess.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Meeka Elizabeth, and Khaleesi Gillespie; her parents, Larry and Tammy Gillespie; brother, Preston Heath Gillespie and wife Lisa; grandparents, who she referred to as "GaGa" and "Nanny", Tom "Curly" and Judy Hess; aunts and uncles, Tommy and Jane Hess, Terry and Suzi Hess, Jerry Gillespie, Douglas Gillespie, and David Gillespie; nephew, Tyler Preston; goddaughter, Zoey Sykes; special cousins, Colten Hess, Bailey Greer and husband Jeremy, Kimmie Infante and husband Nick, and Megan Norris; special friend Kelly who she co-parented with; special friends, Amber and Zach Sykes, Greyson Roberts, Ashley Walker, Kiersten Flemming and Gary Sweat; dear cousins, and many special friends.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Smyth County Animal Rescue in Morgan's honor; 182 Rifton Drive, Marion, Virginia, 24354.

Funeral services will be conducted at 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Northwood Highschool Gymnasium with Pastor David Mumpower officiating. The family will be receiving friends from 4 until 7 p.m. prior to the service. There will be a private family graveside service. Pallbearers are Corey Norris, Colten Hess, Jeremy Olinger, Jeremy Greer, Zach Sykes, Greyson Roberts, Dane Evans, Allan Thomas, Kevin Kegley, and Nick Infante.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Morgan Elizabeth Gillespie.