Barbara B. Gillespie

Brentwood, TN resident and Guntersville, AL native Barbara Ann Brown Gillespie, age 91, was born April 5, 1934 and died October 25, 2025 at Canterfield of Franklin in Brentwood, TN following an extended illness.

She was a woman of deep faith that lived her life in service to others. She had an inner beauty, strength, and grace that defined her life. Her home was a place of comfort, welcome, and nourishment - always the fabulous cook and hostess. She had a natural gift for design and decorating. As a seamstress, she made clothing for herself, family, and even the Barbie dolls! She custom made decorative pillows, window treatments, table coverings, and more - no pattern required. Other passions included a love for reading, family ancestry, and Civil War history while living in Franklin, TN.

One of her greatest joys and accomplishments was working with the Maranatha youth group at the First United Methodist Church.

Her love for others was protective and selfless. Her legacy of "Faith, Hope, & Love" will live on through those that were blessed to have known her.

The family is most appreciative of the compassion and comfort given by the entire staff at Canterfield Assisted Living and Accent Hospice. We will forever be grateful and thankful for your loving care.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Onmon Ledrew Brown and Annie Frances Tuck Brown; brother, Shelby Edward (Buddy) Brown and son-in-law, William Wade Sugg, Jr.

Mrs. Gillespie is survived by daughters, Anngela Faith “Bunny” Sugg; Catherine Hope “Kitty” Young (Michael), grandchildren, William Wade (Trey) Sugg, III and Andrew Dean Sugg (Cristal); great grandchildren, Lindy Claire Sugg and Landon Wade Sugg and many nieces and nephews that she dearly loved.

Please honor Barbara's memory by wearing any shade of purple to the graveside service - her signature color. Also, tell people, "I love you" - she always did!

Graveside service and interment will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, November 2, 2025 at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Warren County with Reverend Randy Brown officiating.  Family and friends will meet at Gardens of Memory for the graveside service. There will be no visitation at High’s.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Good Neighbor Program at First United Methodist Church or Magness Memorial Library (both in McMinnville, TN) or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.