Theresa Gillespie

SOUTH PORTLAND — Theresa A. Gillespie, 88, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2017 at Fallbrook Woods in Portland.

Born on July 24, 1929, in Berlin, N.H., Theresa was the daughter of the late Adelard and Eva (Letellier) Langevin. In her early life, Theresa remained in New Hampshire where she married Robert Gillespie on Sept. 18, 1948. Robert and Theresa raised their family in Gorham, N.H., until moving to Portland and then South Portland, where they made their home. Together, they shared 43 years of marriage until Robert predeceased her in 1991.

Over the years, Theresa worked for Fairchild Semiconductor, Uncle Andy’s Restaurant and operated a wallpaper shop. However, the work she enjoyed the most was with South Portland High School cafeteria where she enjoyed being known as “Nana” by her grandchildren and their classmates.

In the years after Robert’s death, Theresa reconnected with an old neighbor who was also widowed, Sam Robinson. Theresa enjoyed traveling with Sam and spending time at his cottage on Sebago Lake. They shared many years together until his death in 2009.

Theresa had a quick sense of humor, loved to socialize, was a very good cook and loved to play golf. She also loved to read and was a wicked cribbage player.

Above all else, was her love for her family. Theresa adored her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She put them first in everything she did. Theresa was a loving and caring matriarch who will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, husband and Sam, Theresa was predeceased by five siblings.

She is survived by her children, Darlene Kelman of Bridgton, Jim Gillespie of South Portland, Gary Gillespie of Scarborough, Scott Gillespie of Lyman and Karen Dunbar of Saco; nine grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; siblings, Rita Gagne, Helen Ramsey, Norman Langevin and Peggy Pettengill.

Visiting hours were held on Thursday, Nov. 30 at the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, Dec. 1 at Holy Cross Church, 124 Cottage Road, South Portland. Interment followed at Calvary Cemetery, Broadway, South Portland.

To view Theresa’s memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made the Alzheimer’s Association of Maine, 383 U.S. Route One #2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.