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Dr. James Harvey (J Harvey) Gillespie

10/08/1946 - 07/08/2025

Obituary For Dr. James Harvey (J Harvey) Gillespie

Dr. James Harvey (J Harvey) Gillespie

James Harvey Gillespieโ€™s earthly sojourn began on October 8, 1946 as the fourth of seven children born to James Edward and Hildrith Doris Johnson Gillespie. He made his entrance into the heavenly realm on July 8, 2025. J Harvey received his diploma from Austin High School Class of 1965. Dr. Gillespie furthered his education at Morristown College, Knoxville College, Lehigh University, University of Tennessee, and Jackson State University. James Harvey was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Janie Mae Gillespie and Sylvia Gillespie Hughes; nephews Paul and DeWayne Gillespie, Marcus Carmichael, niece Diane Dalton; and other relatives. James Harvey leaves precious memories with his brother, Frank E. Gillespie and sisters, Hildrith C. Gillespie; Darneta G. Brown and Bonita Gillespie. Nieces and nephews James Harvey helped raise: Juanita (Phillip) Harris, Lisa Davis, Carol (Samuel) Badgett, Melodie Jones, James Gillespie Hughes, LaTisha Hughes; loving niece Angela Satterfield and five other nieces and nephews; 25 great nieces and nephews to include devoted niece and nephew Zackeaโ€™ Harris and Marquis Ridley; 16 great-great nieces and nephews. Other relatives include Betty and Evelyn Geter and Family, Ann Dingus Cash and Family, Patsy Johnson and Family, Fitzpatrick Johnson Family, Dorothy Jenkins and Murphy Family and a host of other relatives and friends.

The celebration of Life will be held at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, 1807 Dandridge Avenue Knoxville, TN 37915 at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 with receiving of friends from 11:30-12:30. In Lieu of flowers please send donations to Mobile Meals or Knoxville College National Alumni Association.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Unity Mortuary. www.unitymortuary1979.com


Condolences & Tributes

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My sincere condolences to the Gillespie Family. I regret that I was not able to attend J Harvey's service and wanted to let you know that you were in my prayers during that time. I will always fondly remember your brother's sharp and witty personality.

Corine E. Crawford

To the Gillespie family, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved brother, J Harvey. His dynamic presence brought love, light, joy, and wisdom into many lives. During this difficult time, please know that my thoughts are with you.

Anna Marie Dirl

Condolences to the Gillespie Family in their time of bereavement for their loss . May God wipe away your tears and give you peace.

Carrie Simmons

To My Gillespie Family, my condolences and prayers are with you. The love between our families will always be cherished. J Harvey was a dear friend from childhood church friend to 1965 classmate to present. He was always with a smile and direct. I will miss our long distance phone calls. Rest in peace my dear friend. Mary Allis Walker Burriss

Mary Allis Walker Burriss

My deepest prayers ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿพand condolences are with the Gillespie family. Dr. Gillespie taught my freshman studies class at Knoxville College, which I attended starting August 1988. He was an incredible mentor who recognized my potential before I did.

David Smyre

David Smyre Sr

Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to all of you, and may the PEACE of GOD that surpasses all understanding bring comfort to all now, and forever. Treasure the memories of your love ones in your Hearts forevermore. Continual prayers for all in the days, months and years to come. Lillian West-Collins & Family, Jamesena West-Hardin & Family

Jamesena West-Hardin

My brother and I send our condolences to the Gillespie family. I will always cherish our childhood memories at Mount Calvary Baptist Church with Rev . Harris. J. Harvey was very interested in sharing his education and his humorous personality lifted the spirits of everyone . I will miss our phone call conversations. He always stood tall in a room. Rest in peace, Dr. J. Harvey Gillespie. Your accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. You shared them with us. Tomeatres Brown Morton

Tomeatres Morton

Rest in peace Dr. Gillespie. I will never forget the fun and laughter we shared.

Linda Treadwell

From Austin High School to Knoxville College,Dr.Gillespie(J.Harvey)brought lots of joy and laughter yet very astute.Thanks for sharing him.

Elizabeth Sullivan

Sending Prayers & Our Deepest Condolences To The Family of James Harvey. He Will Truly Be Missed. RIP.

Wm.Sr & Joyce Burris

To my family(Gillespie) that loved my family (McDuffey) before I was born. I am truly grateful for the love shared between our families. We pray blessings of strength and encouragement to each one of you. Jesus has the final say, my Uncle James Harvey would love nothing more but for each one of us to remember his joy, laughter and even his seriousness. We all know he has found his resting place. We will every remember his smile and laughter. We Love you all!

Chenitha A. Drake

Condolences ๐Ÿ’ and Much prayers to his family ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿพ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿฝ

Kathy White Robinson

Love you so much Uncle JHarvey... Thanks for ALWAYS showing so much class and strength in just being you. Love you Always. Rest In Power ๐Ÿ•Š๏ธ

Maurice & Trevina Gillespie

I will miss you J Harvey. I will never forget the bring light that you always displayed from our first meeting at Dear Ole Austin High. You always showed your fellow classmates of the Class of 1965 what dignity looked like. Love you and your family. God Bless and may you Rest in Peace.

Dennie Littlejohn

Sending You All My Sincere Prayers and Condolences to The Gillipse Family

Beverley McCoy Brown

R.I.P

Dianne McHenry

Praying God's strength and comfort as you celebrate the life and legacy of your brother. Peace and Blessings, Dr. Streeter

Montrose A Streeter

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Unity Mortuary | Knoxville, TN

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