James "Jim" J. Gillespie

James J. Gillespie, resident of Beacon Hill for over 60 years, formerly of Holyoke, passed away on January 24, 2020.  He was 91 years old.

James was a proud US Army Veteran of the Korean War. He was an avid reader, and a foodie who enjoyed watching cooking shows and enjoying fine dining and spending as much time as possible with his many friends and nephews. He was a lover of all animals, especially cats and was a huge fan of Alabama Football. Following a very distinguished career in the financial industry, working for Fidelity and Keystone, James spent over 2 decades volunteering at Mass General Hospital in the Chemotherapy Infusion Unit. He was there 3 days a week since 1996, first starting his volunteer work in the blood bank, and then moving to the chemo unit becuase of his desire to make a difference in the lives of people living with cancer. He truly loved the sense of helping others and giving back.

James was the son of the late Michael and Katherine "Kitty" Gillespie. Dear uncle of Jon, Joseph, Colin, Kian, Tiarnan Laura and Iris Gillespie. Dear brother of the late John "Jack" Gillespie. He is also survived by many loving friends.

James’s Funeral will be from the Kfoury Keefe Funeral Home, 8 Spring St. (at the corner of Centre St.) WEST ROXBURY, Thursday at 9 a.m. followed by his Funeral Mass at St. Theresa of Avila Church at 10 a.m.  Visiting Hours will be held Wednesday 5-8 p.m. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in James’ memory may be made to the MSPCA, 350 South Huntington Ave. Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, or to Mass General Hospital 55 Fruit St. Boston, MA 02114.

James will be laid to rest with Military Honors at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. 

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