Vernon Ray Gillespie

Vernon Ray Gillespie, age 90, longtime Coweta resident departed this life on Wednesday morning, November 25, 2020 at his home in Coweta, Oklahoma.  Vernon was born on July 18, 1930 in Pocasset, Oklahoma and was the son of Earl Ray and Bessie O. (Zink) Gillespie.  He worked at Vendo Corporation in Kansas City, Missouri as a forklift driver for over 30 years.  Vernon then worked at a local car wash for 18 years until he retired.  In 1974, he married the love of his life, Norma Jean (Stafford) Gillespie.  Vernon enjoyed gardening and working outside.

Vernon is survived by his wife, Norma Gillespie of the home in Coweta, Oklahoma; two daughters, Diana Hickman of Florida and Nancy Garrett of Texas; one son, Eddie Bell of Missouri; one sister, Evelyn Johnson of Kansas; and several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Vernon was preceded in death by his parents, Earl Ray and Bessie O. Gillespie; one son, Roy Lee Gillespie; and three sisters.

In honoring Vernon’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services.  He will be laid to rest at Park Grove Cemetery in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Family and friends may share memories online at www.brownfamilycares.com.  The family of Vernon Ray Gillespie entrusted his care to Brown Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, Oklahoma 74429, 918-486-5515.