Maria Gillespie

Liberty, SC

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maria Gillespie, who left this world peacefully on July 22, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on January 21, 1940, in Tampa, Florida, she was the widow of William “Bill” Gillespie, Sr. and a daughter of the late Nicholas and Thelma Malphurs Macchiarella.

Maria lived a life filled with love, dedication, and resilience, leaving behind a legacy cherished by those who knew her.

Maria achieved numerous accomplishments, where her warm spirit and kind smile touched the lives of countless patrons. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly when she opened her first business, (Maria’s) Dress Shop in Mobile, AL growing that business into 5 locations. Farmers Hill Pet Grooming which developed into 5 locations in SC, achieving national recognition for the largest pet grooming facility nationally. Maria’s determination along with Bill’s ingenuity jointly owned and operated Southern Vinyl Siding and Window Manufacturing, Inc. in Liberty, SC. Together they built a profound legacy, achieving awards such as: Manufacture of the Year Award by the SC Chamber of Commerce, the Golden Torch Award presented by the BBB. Proceeding Bill’s passing she continued to excel by achieving the Upstate Business Woman of the year Award. Maria expanded her presence in civil work by stepping up to President of the Liberty Chamber of Commerce that roll lead her into Leadership Pickens County where she served on the Board of Regents, Pickens County Alliance, Pickens/ Oconee County Coalition and briefly served on the board for school of business at Southern Wesleyan University, as well as other various local boards. Maria not only holds one but two keys to the City of Liberty for her contributions. Maria’s involvement in Civic & Charitable organizations became her passion. Maria was very proud of her involvement with the development of Mary’s House which benefited & sheltered battered women. Maria served various roles with her active participation with The Order of The Eastern Star, Daughter’s of the Nile as well as her cherished membership as order of the Amaranth serving both SC & GA. Positions served were Royal Matron twice, had various Grand Officer positions & Grand Representative Appointments. Through these organizations she raised money for diabetic research & disabled children.   At the age of 76 Maria pivoted using her extensive construction background & strong leadership abilities. She obtained her SC Real Estate License and hung them under her daughter’s BIC license with Southern Real Estate & Development, Inc. Once again allowing her to work closely with her family & serve her community. Maria became a trusted figure in the construction industry with her SC Builders License, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues and clients alike.

Those left to cherish her memory include her 4 children, Deborah Stehle (Chuck) and their daughter Tia Stehle, Francine “Tor-Tor” Powers (Aaron) and their children, Brittney Casagrande and Shaun Powers (Karen), and Vikki Blair (Kenneth) and their children, Tyler and Austin Blair, William “Poe” Gillespie (Detta) along with their children Matt and Amy Gillespie; a stepson, Anthony Gillespie; four step daughters, Constance Moody, Tracy Dean, Sandra Bryant, and Carolyn Gordon; also surviving are numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services to honor Maria’s life will be conducted 11:00 AM Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at New Image Church, 311 Anderson Highway, Easley SC 29642. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Liberty Memorial Gardens.   The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at the Liberty Mortuary.

Maria Gillespie will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. May she rest in peace.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family please visit libertymortuary.com. Liberty Mortuary is handling arrangements.

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