LaVelle "Lee" Watts Gillespie

Lee Gillespie was born Bennie LaVelle Watts on January 22nd, 1932 in Parks, Arkansas to Edez Harris and Columbus David Watts. She passed peacefully at her home in Yukon, Oklahoma on November 19th, 2025 with her daughter and son.

Lee lived a long full life, attended Southern Methodist University for Physical Education, married Bud Halbert in 1952 and was Mother to 3 children. She acted in local theater productions, such as The Tender Trap, modeled clothes, taught school and dabbled in business with her own dress shop, The Pink Orange. She coached the girl’s basketball team and the Lionettes, at R.L.Turner High School, where her daughter, Lori, was also a Lionette. She remarried Dan Gillespie in 1977, and they had 38 wonderful years together. They lived all over, moving over 40 times, including Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Vilnius, Lithuania. They dined at the finest restaurants & played the best golf courses wherever they went.

Lee loved acting, dancing, golf, decorating, cooking and doing yoga. She owned & operated Lee’s Flower Carousel, where she was the lead floral arranger. She also sold real estate in Orange County, California, where she won many awards and was also President of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Lee was the Greatest Mother, Best Wife and Friend. She was always open to everyone, ready to listen and offer a hand. She was an example of strength and moderation and succeeded at all she took on. She will be greatly missed.

Lee was predeceased by her daughter: Lori, her mother: Edez, her stepson: Michael, and her husband: Daniel Gillespie. She is survived by children: Jeffrey Dreyer & Lee Rockway and stepchildren: Danny, Timmy & Patty Gillespie & Kathy Moran.

Lee wished to be cremated, with her ashes spread in the Pacific Ocean, just like her husband, Dan. For any donations, please plant a tree or flowering bush in your yard.