Marian Elizabeth Gillespie's Obituary
Marian was not just a mother but also a daughter, a best friend, a teacher, and even a motivator. She was born to Mabel Loretta Green and Joshua Springs on March 30th, 1952, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Marian lived a full life and went home to be with Lord on March 20, 2026.
Marian was a selfless, devoted force in our family’s life. Even from an early age, she took on the role of mother to her siblings—four brothers and three sisters, guiding them with care when their own mother had to work. Her brothers, Eric and Paul Baker, are both deceased. She is survived by her brothers, Kenneth Baker and Donnamicia Evans, and her sisters, Dolores Baker Board, Sandra Bentley Baker, and Jennifer Jackson, who was married to Michael Jackson. Even after starting her own family, she never stopped watching over them all.
Marian started her own family early in life and loved them fiercely, she had three children: Leslie Elizabeth Gillespie, Eddie James Gillespie, Jr., whose wife is Kimberly Gillespie, and Marcia Gillespie. She always made time for them, no matter who else needed her for any reason.
When we think of her legacy, we also remember her grandchildren: Michael Gillespie, whose wife is Brittany Gillespie; Eric Gillespie, whose wife is Allison Gillespie; Ryan, Brandon, Christopher, Orlando, and Dominic Gillespie, as well as her fourteen great-grandchildren. Her devotion extended to them—she always had a kind word or a stern look to encourage them to do their best.
Her love, strength, and wisdom were boundless, and today, we remember her not only in sorrow, but in gratitude for the life she lived. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in all of us.
Marian will lie-in-state on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. in the Chapel with Ms. E’bay Seans as the Eulogist. Burial in Lakewood Memory Gardens, East.
What’s your fondest memory of Marian?
What’s a lesson you learned from Marian?
Share a story where Marian's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Marian you’ll never forget.
How did Marian make you smile?