Daniel Lynn Gillespie

Daniel Lynn Gillespie, 78, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Cedarhurst Assisted Living. He was born in Bethany, Missouri, to Glenn and Elaine (Sanders) Gillespie on Feb. 8th, 1947. Daniel grew up in a small-town world that shaped his strong work ethic, deep faith, and sense of duty.

After graduating from David H. Hickman High School in 1965, Daniel answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He served with honor, and upon completing his military service, he returned home to begin another kind of service — to his community.

For 25 years, Daniel wore the badge of the Columbia Police Department with pride and

compassion. In addition, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Northeast Missouri State University.

After retiring from the police force, he continued serving others as an investigator for the State of Missouri, and later, as a security guard at the University of Missouri Hospital.

Daniel was a man of simple joys and deep loves. He found peace on the golf course and comfort in the laughter of his family. He was a devoted father to his son, Drew, and a proud grandfather to Gavin.

Daniel was a man of faith and a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Hartsburg. He found strength and community in his church and a sense of family within his bible study group. He was also a member of the Columbia Country Club, where he spent many cherished hours on the green.

He survives his loving son, Drew Gillespie, and Drew’s wife, Nicci, of Columbia; his

beloved grandson, Gavin Gillespie; his brother, Richard Gillespie (Karen) of Warrensburg;

his sister, Patricia Byington (Jay) of St. Charles; and many nephews, a niece, extended

family, and friends who will miss his sense of humor and kind heart.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Elaine, who surely welcomed him home with open arms.

Words of comfort and support may be shared with the family at the visitation, which will be from 1:30P to 2:30P at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Hartsburg on Friday, September 26th. Services honoring and celebrating Daniel’s life will follow at 2:30, along with military honors. Committal prayers and inurnment will be at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Jacksonville, MO with immediate family the following Monday.