Mildred Gillespie

Mildred was born on April 17, 1936, in Winnsboro, South Carolina, to John and Eunice Ginyard. At the age of 18, she moved with her family to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she made her home for the rest of her life.

Mildred worked as a surgical technician and was honored to assist with the first heart transplant performed at the University of Michigan in 1971. She took great pride in her work and in the opportunity to be part of such a historic medical milestone.

A woman of deep faith and unwavering service, Mildred devoted much of her life to her church and community. She faithfully served in many ministries at Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor, including the Usher Board, Progressive Club, Food Program, and Older Adult Ministry. She was also a longtime member of Daisy Chain Temple No. 212 of the James Crawford Elks Lodge, where she faithfully served as Treasurer and was known for her dedication, dependability, and willingness to serve others.

Mildred was a devoted Christian whose kindness, grace, and quiet strength touched the lives of many. She found great joy in cooking for family and friends, tending her garden, and appreciating life’s simple blessings. A refined and elegant woman, she will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit, steadfast faith, and unwavering love for her family.

Mildred is survived by her loving son, Ronald Ginyard; her grandchildren, Silvia Tolbert of Los Angeles, California, and Tivona Temple of Denver, Colorado; 11 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and her loving sister, Alice Martin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Eunice Ginyard; her brothers, John Ginyard, Henry Ginyard, and David Ginyard; and her sister, Genell Henderson.

Mildred’s legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in the promise that she is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

A Family Hour will be held at Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor, 850 Red Oak Rd, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104, on July 27, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Funeral Service will be held at Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor, 850 Red Oak Rd, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104, on July 27, 2026, at 11:00 am, with burial to follow service at United Memorial Gardens.