Patricia Gillespie

Patricia Gillespie, a cherished wife and mother, departed this life on September 21, 2025, in Decatur, Texas leaving behind a legacy of faith, knowledge, service, and love. She was born in Los Angeles, California, on May 4, 1956 to Marion Todd and Donald Torres. After attending Brigham Young University she married her husband, Richard in Provo, Utah. She later went back to school and received her Bachelor's and Master’s Degrees from the University of North Texas.

She was a homemaker and had an eye for beauty. Whether it was a home project or a book or a meal, she wanted it to be beautiful and she wanted to share that love of beauty with her family. She is survived by her husband and her six children-Gaylene, Todd, Amberly, Gillian, Thatcher, and Gabriel. She also has 11 grandchildren: Braden, Kellen, Raelin, Andelin, Drew, Savannah, Abigail, Dax, Temperance, Graham, and Lilith. She loved being with her family and seeing her progeny grow and learn.

She was a professional genealogist who inspired many in her various speaking engagements at conferences all over Texas. She found immense joy in helping others find their ancestors and learn their own family stories. She made many lifelong friends in the genealogical community.

Those who know and love Patti will remember her for her big smile, infectious laugh and her deep-rooted faith in Jesus Christ. She had a rare gift for seeing a person for who they are and loving them. She drew people in and helped them feel comfortable. She was a trusted friend to so many.

Her funeral service will be September 27 at 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 202 E. Thompson St. Decatur, Tx 76234. A viewing will begin one hour prior at 9:00 am. She will be buried at Provo City Cemetery in Provo, Utah.