Mary Owings (nee: Richards) Gillespie

(May 13,1933 - February 5, 2024)

Mary Gillespie of Lebanon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2024.  Born May 13, 1933, to Clara (nee: Wells) and Thornton Kimbrough Richards in Owingsville, Bath County, Kentucky,  Mary had a childhood filled with warm and colorful memories that she often shared with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Charles Gillespie; sister, Nell Flower; brothers, William, James, and Robert Richards; and son-in-law, Ernie Sword.  Mary is survived by daughters, Patricia Gillespie and Judith Sword; granddaughter, Emily (Jason) White; great-grandchildren, Claire and Owen White; brother, Carroll Richards; and many nieces and nephews.

For many years, Mary worked at the Montgomery Ward Catalog Store and served with the Warren County Board of Elections.  She was a member of the United Methodist Church.  She enjoyed visiting with her friends and neighbors and often "held court" on her porch.  She was thankful to God for every day and we will miss her smile and wit.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Oswald-Hoskins Funeral Home from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with funeral service immediately following.  Interment follows in Lebanon Cemetery. Please wear a happy color to honor Mary.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in Mary's honor to a charity of choice.