BROWNSTOWN
Betty Jane (Butt) Gillespie, of Brownstown, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 5, 2024, at Schneck Medical Center, Seymour, surrounded by loved ones. She was 84 years old.
Born on April 1, 1940, in Milan, Betty was the daughter of W.R. “Red” and Ruth (Marsh) Butt, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in a close-knit family in Brownstown, and she has been a life-long member of Brownstown United Methodist Church. On August 27, 1961, she married Jack Ray Gillespie, also of Brownstown. They enjoyed 62 wonderful years together that found them living in Indiana, Georgia, Alabama, and Illinois, before returning to Brownstown in 1991.
Betty’s greatest joy in life came from being a devoted mother, grandmother and wife. Her nurturing spirit created a warm and welcoming environment where family gatherings were filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Her unconditional love and selflessness knew no bounds. She was a constant source of strength and stability, guiding her family with wisdom and grace; and she showed unwavering generosity to everyone she met.
In addition to being survived by her husband, Jack, Betty is survived by two daughters: Jeanne Lou Gillespie (John Palensky) of Hattiesburg, and Jane Elizabeth (Peter) Ellery of Brownstown; one son Charles “Chuck” (Margaret) Gillespie of Fishers; six grandchildren: Veronica Palensky, Shannon Ellery, Drew Ellery, Fiona Palensky, Emma Gillespie, and Jaden Palensky; sisters-in-law, Darlene Butt and Jacque Gillespie; brother-in-law, Jerry Banks; multiple nephews; and a niece.
Betty was preceded in death by her sister, Sally Banks; her brother, James Butt; her brother-in-law, Robert Gillespie; and her sister-in-law, Lela Gillespie.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc., Brownstown, with Pastor Kay Pratt officiating. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown.
Memorials may be given to Brownstown United Methodist Church or Hoosier Christian Village Auxiliary.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.
Online memorials and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com.