Lorna Esther Gillespie

Lorna was born on the family farm in Yarbo on August 20, 1936 to Harold and Emelia (Minnie) Sparrowhawk. She was raised in the same community and moved to Regina as a young lady where she worked at the Regina General Hospital in housekeeping. There, her older brother introduced her to his co-worker at Smeeds Trucking Company, a young man named John Gillespie.

Lorna and John married January 19, 1957 at Esterhazy Catholic Church. They started their family in Regina, relocating to Balgonie. After moving back to Regina, they finally settled their young family in Esterhazy. As well as raising her large family while John worked away from home, Lorna took employment at the Care Home, then as a nurse’s aide at St. Anthony’s Hospital. She returned to housekeeping prior to her retirement from St. Anthony’s.

In her later years, Lorna travelled extensively across North America on car trips and bus tours. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, knitting, cooking, and baking. She loved her home and decorated for every season. Lorna was very proud of her Catholic faith and was a member of the CWL, Grey Nuns Associates and the Lay Ministry program. Her faith was a core part of her and saw her through many difficult times and joyous celebrations.

Lorna bestowed on us her love of music which continues to play an integral role in her family. She had a beautiful voice and played organ and guitar wonderfully, by ear no less. She loved to dance and at one point was president of the Potashville Singles, which held dances on the weekends.

More than anything, Lorna loved her family. Her home was the centre of all family gatherings and she was so proud of when her children got together and sang, laughed, and celebrated those special times. Her many friends, acquaintances, patients, and co-workers can attest to her warm and caring nature. She was always there to lend a helping hand when needed.

Lorna is predeceased by her parents, brother David, sister and brother-in-law Dorothy and Roger Shivak, husband John, sons Kenneth, Joseph, John and Grant, and daughter-in-law Shelley. She is also predeceased by her second husband Roy Johnson. She is survived by her brother Ken (Betty), sister-in-law Marilyn, children Harold, Carmen (Gerry Oake), Earl (Cindy), Tim, Jason (Annette), Carla, 16 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.