Clarence MacArthur Gillespie

Clarence MacArthur Gillespie, 78 of Sutton, WV was called home to be with the Lord on January 19, 2021.  Born on August 28, 1942, in Sutton, WV he was the son of Clarence V. and Laura Gillespie.  Clarence, known as “Pap” by those who loved him, passed away at his home in Sutton in the loving care and embrace of his wife Caroline, and surrounded by his children, grandchildren and four-legged family. His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life with a smile, and sometimes a joke. Despite his pain, Clarence remains a hero to his family, staying strong until the very end.

He is survived by his loving wife, Caroline Gillespie, his sons Clarence M. Gillespie Jr. (and his wife Connie) of Anstead, WV, James Gillespie (and his wife Crystal) of Poole, WV, Rodney Gillespie (and his wife Martie) of Frametown, WV and his youngest son Darrell Gillespie (and Melinda Shaver) of Sutton, WV. He leaves behind five adoring grandchildren Kristen, Geneva Kate, Victoria Grace, Shayla and Garrett Gillespie. He opened his heart to three step grandchildren who were also blessed to call him Pap and will miss him greatly, Mackenzie Barrett, Danny Mosley and Mason Gillespie. He has one adorable great grandchild Conway Cash Barrett. He is preceded in death by his youngest brother Kent Gillespie of Sutton. His absence will be felt by his remaining siblings Alice Lou Ware and Ronald Gillespie both of Sutton, WV and Ralph Gillespie of St. Clairsville, Ohio. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved him and will miss him.

Clarence and Caroline enjoyed thirty-one beautiful years of marriage. They shared a love of all things furry and four legged and their home became a refuge to animals that needed a second chance to be spoiled and cared for. Clarence spent his final days surrounded by the love and protection of all them, especially his beloved cat Poppy.

Clarence attended school in Braxton County until his junior year in High School when he transferred to Elkview, WV and graduated with the class of 1960. He was so beloved by his former classmates in Braxton that they made him an honorary graduate of Sutton High School class of 1960.

He was a member of the Southern State Baptist Church and committed his life to Christ.  One of the proudest days was his choice to be baptized and being surrounded by his family as they celebrated with him.

Clarence was an integral part of Braxton County through his partnership as a business owner of Sutton Feed & Hardware. Until the end he recounted many fond memories of working beside his sons, his family and serving the residents of Braxton. To this day many remember his many contributions to the county, including the restoration of the Sutton Pool.

His biggest legacy lives on in the lives of the four boys that he loved dearly. His first love was spending time with them riding motorcycles. His sons fondly remember weekends spending time with their dad and many of his friends riding trails.

His wife Caroline, along with his four sons would like to personally thank Bethany Ratliff, her staff and the hospice nurses who so lovingly cared for Clarence and offered the family so much support during such a difficult time.

As per his wishes Clarence was cremated immediately following his passing. The family wishes to privately remember this amazing man they held so dear. We appreciate all the prayers, phone calls, visits and cards that sustained us during such a difficult time. The family asks that you allow them time to grieve during the next several months.

Fond memories can be shared along with words of comfort and support can be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his name to the Braxton County Animal Shelter, 10 Animal Shelter Lane, Sutton, WV  26601.

Arrangements by Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway, WV.