Obituary of Bonnie Gillespie

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Nadine Bonita (Bonnie) Gillespie, widow of the late Ronald Burton Gillespie Sr., passed away at the SJRH on August 18^th, 2023, after losing her battle with lung cancer. She was surrounded by her family and friends. 

Born on June 16, 1947, in Hayesville, NB, Bonnie was the daughter of the late Logan (Billy) Hunter and Estelle Hunter (Munn). She was the fourth of eight children. Bonnie was predeceased by her brother David (Mike) Hunter, sister Darlene Hovey, brother in-law Watson Hovey, brother Burke Hunter, and brother in-law Ralph Greene.

Bonnie graduated from New Brunswick Teachers College in Fredericton, NB. Upon graduation, she taught one year in Boiestown, NB, two years at East Saint John Elementary School, and then more than thirty years as a substitute teacher, with most of that time spent at Champlain Heights Elementary School, where she was a permanent fixture.

Bonnie was a devoted Bingo player, a passion she continued until the final days of her life. She enjoyed card games, especially 45s, Canasta, and Bridge, as well as various dice games. For many years Bonnie was a member and leader of Topps Saint John. Most importantly, Bonnie loved people and people loved our mother. She had a fantastic sense of humour, always quick with a “risqué” joke, a spontaneous limerick, rhyme or poem. Her infectious laugh could light up any room or gathering. Bonnie was a veracious reader for as far back as anyone can remember. She was also known for having an ensemble for every season. Generally complete with matching earrings, watch and a hat. Finally, mom was an AMAZING cook. Whether it be Christmas sweets, dinner for a family of four, a group of hungry university athletes or a cook house of 200 men…mom was a wonder in the kitchen!!!

Bonnie is survived by her two children; son Ron Gillespie Jr. (Cathy Craig) and daughter Rhonda Morin (Joseph), five grandchildren; Alexandra Gillespie, Gabrielle Gillespie, Mackenzie Gillespie, Owen Morin (Haley) and Anna Morin (Ethan), siblings; Wilda Greene, Randy Hunter, Ricky Hunter (Celeste) and Margot Hunter (Mike), sisters in-law Marie Hunter and Gay Hunter, as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to mom’s special cronies from teacher’s college. Lifelong friends through think and thin, Jackie Robertson (Richard), Melissa Peacock (Ron), Nancy Smith (Malcolm), and Mary Jean Norwood (Bill). They were by mom’s side until the end.

We would also like to express thanks to the team at the SJRH’s palliative care unit.

Arrangements are under the care of Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis (506-849-2119). As per Bonnie’s wishes, visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 22^nd, 2023, from 10am-12pm with a service to follow at 12 PM. A private internment service will be on August 23^rd, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate remembrances to be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.