James Butler Gillespie

July 20, 1931 – January 23, 2024 (age 92)

James Butler Gillespie passed away peacefully on January 23, 2024 at the Saint John Regional Hospital after a three month stay. Predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, Evelyn Eloise (Conner). He is survived by his two sons James Michael Gillespie ((Geeta) and Christopher Grant Gillespie (Kimberly), grandson Brett Christian Gillespie, sister Carol Dickens, nieces Patty, Debbie, Cathy and Ann Marie, nephews Doug and Don Conner (Leslie). A special thanks to Angie Scott who has been Jim’s faithful personal support worker and dear friend for the last few years.

Jim’s presence was larger than life both physically and socially. He loved nothing more than helping people and being a part of the community he lived in. He was actively involved in salmon conservation for many years. He was involved in multiple projects and community groups including the Mississauga Community Centre, the Atlantic Salmon Federation, the Hammond River Angling Association and Crimestoppers. He was the first Chair of the New Brunswick Wildlife Council and a Canadian Commissioner to NASCO. He was well-known and well-respected for his kindness, knowledge and willingness to help others.

Jim was born on July 20. 1931 and lived most of his life in New Brunswick. He had. a lengthy career with Canadian Pacific Railway holding twenty eight positions over thirty five years in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Chapleau, Saint John and finally in Brownville Junction, Maine retiring as Assistant Superintendent for CP Rail’s Atlantic Division. He successfully owned and operated a worm business called Jim’s Live Bait for many years following retirement. He enjoyed a brief career as a consultant for the New Brunswick Southern Railway and Irving.

Anyone who knew Jim knows his favourite pastime was fishing….he enjoyed fishing trips throughout his entire life and as recently as last year. Nothing gave him more pleasure than casting a line into the river. Many years were spent spoiling his English Pointer and English Setter dogs while hunting for upland birds. He thoroughly enjoyed attending and cheering for the Saint John Seadogs. He will be greatly missed by his family and large circle of friends and associates. He was well-known throughout the Province and was recognized and known wherever he went.

As per Jim’s wishes cremation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road, Saint John, NB (506-646-2424). A Celebration of life will follow at a later date. If desired, condolences can be forwarded to the family at [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hammond River Angling Association or Crimestoppers Saint John.