1940-2026
Virginia Ann Owen Gillespie, 86, of White Hall, Arkansas passed away April 22, 2026, at her home. She was born January 8, 1940, in Glendale, Arkansas to the late Otto and Mary Will Smith Owen.
Virginia was a member of Southside Baptist Church in Star City, Arkansas. She was a homemaker and caretaker that enjoyed being with her family, especially her grandkids. She enjoyed fishing, sewing, gardening, and cooking.
Also, preceding Virginia in death was her husband off 55 years, Vernon Gillespie, seven sisters; Helen Ballew, Carrie Mae McClinton, Pebble Watts, Evelyn Johnston, Maxine Woolley, Martha Lou Mayfield, Eula Faye Hestand, and three brothers; James Owen, Victor Owen, and Herbert Owen.
Survivors include two sons, Vernon Gillespie, Jr of San Antonio, TX and Vance Scott Gillespie of Star City, AR, two daughters, Vickie L. Caldwell (James) of Dunnegan, Mo and Vida Rowland of White Hall, one sister, Joyce McFalls of Pine Bluff, three grandchildren, J. “Jerome” Caldwell of Dunnegan, MO, Kyle Rowland (Carol Anne) of Gillette, and Rebecca L. DeLeon (PJ) of San Antonio, TX, two great grandchildren, Walker Rowland of Gillette and Adelynn DeLeon of San Antonio, TX, and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Visitation will be Monday, April 27, 2026, from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Griffin Funeral Service. Funeral Service will follow at 2:00 PM at Griffin Funeral Service Chapel with Bro. Donald Ruffin officiating. Burial will be in Shady Grove Cemetery. Pallbearers are J. “Jerome” Caldwell, Kyle Rowland, and Walker Rowland.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Vida Rowland for her loving care and support during this time.
Memorials may be made to Otto Owen Cemetery Fund C/O Elaine Elmore, 36 Tyree Road, Mt. Ida, Arkansas 71957.
Arrangements by Griffin Funeral Service of Star City.
