Lakeland Lawrence Gillespie

Lakeland was born in West Virginia and moved to Jacksonville, Florida at the age of 16. He built a long and dedicated career as a machinist and later became a supervisor for Metal Container before retiring. He was a proud Mason and later became a Shriner. Lakeland enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing golf, and he was an avid collector of guns and watches.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fugate and Ruby Gillespie; his brother, Kermit Gillespie; and his sisters, Joann and Janet.

Lakeland is survived by his loving spouse, Bonnie Gillespie; his son, Lakeland “Billy” Gillespie and wife Dawn; his daughters, Bonnie “Sissy” and husband Dwight, and Susan and husband Gary. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Lakeland Jr. and wife Kimberly, Melissa and husband Sarath, Sarah, Colton, Bryce and wife Danielle, Austin, and Haley; as well as his beloved great-grandchildren: Justin, Nikolas, Ryan, Lakeland, and Levi. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Lakeland was a beloved soul who touched many lives. Gone but not forgotten.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on January 15, 2026, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow the funeral.

Services will be held at:

Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park

7242 Normandy Blvd.

Jacksonville, FL 32205

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Lakeland’s memory to Shriners Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.