Gilford Gillespie

Gilford Ray Gillespie, 72, of Davidson County, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

A funeral service celebrating Gilford’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Salem Fork Baptist Church in Elkin, North Carolina, with Pastor Herman Powell officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday at Davidson Funeral Home in Lexington.

Gilford was born in Davidson County on May 29, 1953, to the late Walter Monroe Gillespieand Dorothy Moncus Gillespie. He was a longtime and faithful employee of Kepley Frank Hardwoods, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dependability. Above all, Gilford was a great brother who deeply valued his family. He was a proud Ford man, an avid NASCAR racing fan, especially of Ford drivers, and he had a special appreciation for Cub tractors. These interests brought him much joy and were often shared with those closest to him. In addition to his parents, Gilford was preceded in death by his brothers, Wayne Gillespie and Kenneth Gillespie, and his sister, Linda Gillespie.

Left to cherish his memory are his brothers, Albert Gillespie, David Gillespie, Eddie Gillespie, Mark Gillespie, and Timothy Gillespie; his sister, Mary Gillespie Dauer; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Salem Fork Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 555 Twin Oaks Road, Elkin, NC 28621.

Gilford will be remembered for his loyalty, his love for family, and the simple pleasures that brought meaning to his life.