Bailey Gillespie of Spindale

On this day April 11 2023, the Golden Gates of Heaven opened up with Jesus standing there to greet former Prisoner of War, combat medic, Sergeant First Class Bailey Gillespie of Spindale into his Father's kingdom.

Bailey was a devout Christian who spent his life sharing his faith and leading others to Christ. Bailey was a member of the First Baptist Church of Spindale where he served as a Deacon.

Bailey was a Boy Scout leader and was active in helping handicapped children.

The Lord led Bailey to begin the food pantry at the First Baptist Church with God's help.

Among Bailey's most cherished times were those spent with his family.

Bailey is survived by his wife, Joy Oakley Gillespie, for 70 years. The couple married only two weeks after meeting.

Survivors include daughter Christy Gillespie Shires, three great-grandsons, Hayden Bailey Pierce, Chase Alexander Pierce and D.J. Pierce; one sister, Lana Gillespie Hoppes.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Vester and Georgia Lena Johnson Gillespie; granddaughter Summer Shires Pierce and son-in-law Alfred Shires; brothers Lloyd, William, George, Frank and a sister Zelma Jackson.

Bailey loved many animals throughout his life, Miss Sugar-B, his most Beloved Service Dog; cats Ethel, Hank, Slick, Crazy, Thomas and Baby Boy; and also granddogs Toby and Buddy.

Bailey was held captive as a POW for 34 months during the Korean War, trapped in the death house most of the time. He was blessed to meet Father Chaplain Emil Kapaun who helped him endure the hardship of the camp and survive his captivity.

He wrote the book, "Korean War Remembered Prisoner of War: 1,113 days in hell."

He was a part of the Wolfhounds who were given the name "Fire Brigade" from the 8th Army Commander General Walton Walker. Bailey was the last POW survivor of the Wolfhounds.

With the help of his wife Joy, Bailey was honored in many ways. He was awarded two Purple Hearts, Good Conduct Medal, Japan National Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal, four Bronze Stars, Combat Badge and the United National Service Medal.

Bailey attended Harris High School where he was Valedictorian. He attended Howard's Business College in Shelby and UNC Charlotte. Bailey retired as a Cloth Room Supervisor at Fieldcrest Mills, Alexander Mills.

He received the Jaycee of the Year Award, was a member of the Western Star Masonic Lodge 91 of Rutherfordton, 32nd degree; KCCH Commander of the Court of Honor, and lifetime member of the Oasis Temple in Charlotte, Honorary Kentucky Colonel from the Governor of Kentucky and was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

The family wishes to thank all those who helped Bailey throughout his journey-- Dr. Georgeanna Hogan, Dr. Michael Meigha, Dr. Richard Kelly; caregivers and friends, Brian Gilreath, Ernie Holland, Lanny Walker, Andy and Brenda Evans, Jeff Miller, Penny and Robbie Jenkins, James Schmitt, Jerall Gedney, Rhonda Morrow.

Funeral services were held April 17 at First Baptist Church in Spindale. Rev. Andy Evans, Rev. Larry Ford and Ernie Holland officiated. Bailey was laid rest at the Spindale Cemetery with full Military Honors and Masonic Rites.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made to Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, Shriner's Hospital for crippled children or any food pantry.