Barbara Gillespie

Barbara Jean Johnston Gillespie, 75, of Selah, died May 11, 2016 in Yakima after a year and a half battle with cancer. She was born December 10, 1940 in California to the late James W. and Edith (Taylor) Johnston and graduated as valedictorian and letterman of her Selah graduating class. Barb was an avid reader, had a passion for flowers, and loved to discuss politics. She read every detail of the newspaper and had a mind like a steel trap. She worked in the retail business and preparing tax returns before retiring to be a full time wife. Barb was preceded in death by her husband Louis Arthur Gillespie Sr. and brother John Johnston. She is survived by three sons: Louis (Cindy) Jr, of Yelm, Dan (Debbie) Goins of Yakima, & Jim (Joan) Goins of Yakima, seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, a nephew and two nieces. There will be a private gathering of family and friends at a later date. The family thanks the caregivers of North Star Lodge, Landmark Care Center, and Heartlinks Hospice; special thanks to Cathy, Janice, and Cindy for their loving assistance during Barb’s treatments. Arrangements are in the care of Valley Hills Funeral Home, Yakima. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Barbara Gillespie, please visit our flower store.