Joseph “Jack” Harry Gillespy, Sr, 78, a resident of Stratford for more than 40 years, formerly of Bridgeport and always a proud “South Ender,” died August 16 at St Vincent Medical Center. He was born in Bridgeport, a son of William J. and Catherine Weide Gillespy, and was the beloved husband of Kathleen Gillespy for 57 years.

In addition to his wife, his six children, Kathleen Gillespy Maccharoli of Newtown, Joseph H. Gillespy, Jr, of Florida, Elaine Gillespy, and her fiancé Scott Hutchinson, of Stratford, James Gillespy and Lisa of Milford, Sean Gillespy and Robert Gillespy of Stratford; five beloved grandchildren, Nicholas, Lauren, Alyssa, Gina, and Michael; two cherished great-grandchildren; three sisters and their spouses, Joyce and David Boston, Sr, of Huntington, Martha and Samuel Porto of Arizona, and Lucy and John Gieurula of Waterbury, survive Mr Gillespy. He was “Uncle” to many nieces and nephews and will be remembered by his numerous cousins. Two brothers, Richard A. Gillespy and William J. Gillespy, Jr, predeceased him.

At the age of 18, he was drafted into the US Army where he proudly served his country in Korea and received an honorable discharge.

For a brief time, Jack was a semipro boxer, training at Billy Neri’s Gym in Bridgeport with his father as trainer. He worked for many years at Lombard Brothers in Bridgeport and before his retirement, he was employed for several years at the Fairfield County Hunt Club in Westport.

Mr Gillespy enjoyed reading nonfiction and his hobbies included fishing and hunting, with both bow and rifle. He spent many a happy hour walking the woods in Newfane and Fairlee, Vt. He was always known as a “sharp dresser.” His most treasured times were those spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Private funeral services with military honors took place August 22 at Mountain Grove of Easton Cemetery.

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