Johnny Gillespie of Rockford departed this earthly life July 23, 2021. He was born April 29, 1956 in St. Louis, MO the son of John Henry and Margaret Gillespie. Johnny lived in Rockford since 1977 coming from  East St. Louis, IL. He was a jack of all trades, helping and working where ever he could. Johnny attended schools in E. St. Louis.

Johnny leaves to cherish many fun and loving memories, his sisters, Sherry Loveless and Loletha Mack;  nieces, Karen Moore, Jacqueline (Elmer) Lofton, Johnnetta Richardson, Tundra Loveless, Laronda (Jerry) Gulley, Sharnice Gillespie, Kenyoda Yates, April Richard, Erica Richard, and  Katricia Schumaker; nephews, Byron (Monik) Gillespie,  Michael (Demiria) Gillespie and Kenneth Yates; several great nieces, and great nephews a host of other relatives and friends; including special cousins Jeanette Walker, Yolanda Walker and Laura Ford; and special friend Larry Woods. He was predeceased by parents, step father, Oscar Knox; sister Marilyn Gillespie.

Services will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday, July 31, 2021 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.  Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.