Alphonse Gillespie

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alphonse “Phonse” Sterling Gillespie, beloved partner, father, poppy, great poppy and dear friend. Phonse peacefully left us on December 11, 2024, at the age of 73, surrounded by his loved ones at the Miramichi Regional Hospital.

Born on January 1, 1951, in Newcastle, New Brunswick, Phonse was the eldest son of Annie (Sturgeon) Gillespie and the late Robert (Bobby) Gillespie. Phonse found his greatest joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially in the company of his family and friends, who were always at the center of his heart.

Phonse was a loving and devoted spouse to Paula Taylor. Together they shared many years of love, companionship and laughter. Through the highs and lows of life, they stood side by side, supporting and caring for each other. Alongside them was their dog, Buddy whose joyful presence brought them comfort and happiness.

He was rarely seen without a hat, a trademark that became as much a part of him as anything else. Whether it was a baseball cap, a hunting hat, or his favorite Red Wings/Blue Jays cap, he always had one on. It became almost a part of his identity—something that added to his down-to- earth, easygoing nature.

Phonse had a deep love for sports. During his younger years he played hockey and ball. He was a loyal and devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Blue Jays rarely missing an opportunity to cheer on his teams.

He loved spending time outdoors, where he always felt most at peace. A simple drive through the woods brought him comfort, and hunting was something he truly looked forward to every year. He spent hours setting up trail cameras and tracking game, hoping for a successful moose hunt each season. But his real pride and joy was his tree stand which he built. It wasn’t just a spot to hunt—it was his special place that he took great pride in.

Phonse was a dedicated dart player, earning numerous trophies and tournament wins over the years. He never turned down a game, whether it was a casual match with friends or a friendly competition with a group. The dart games at Phonse and Paula’s were always filled with laughter and friendly rivalry, often stretching late into the night. The winner would proudly take home the trophy, which sat carefully displayed on top of the fridge, a symbol of Phonse's love for the game and the many memories created through it.

His pride and joy, however, extended far beyond the woods and playing darts—his family was always at the center of his heart.

As a father, he was deeply proud of his children and took great joy in watching them grow into the people they are today.

As Poppy and Great Poppy to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Phonse took immense pride in each of them. He treasured every moment spend together and had a special way of making them feel loved and cherished. Whether watching them play hockey on the rink, cheering them on at baseball games, tormenting and agitating them, playing hide-and-seek and or “got your nose”, his presence filled their lives with happiness.

Phonse worked for many years at the Irving Mill in Doaktown, where he was well-loved by his colleagues for his sense of humour and playful teasing. He had an ability to bring laughter to the workplace, often through his lighthearted pranks and banter.

Phonse is survived by his loving partner, Paula Taylor, daughter, Becky (Greg), sons Poncho (Stephanie), Courtenay (Staci), Liam (Becky) and Bobby (Brittany), grandchildren, Lindsay, Taylor, Kendra, Madison, Maguire, Peyton, Preston, Macaully, Sawyer, Sheamus and Londyn, great grandchildren Lydia, Erin and Jaxson, brothers, Brian, Sydney and sisters Debbie and Corrine.

He was predeceased by his father, Bobby and his brother, Gary, brother-in-law, Bernard Manderville, sister-in-law, Twila, nephew, Cody and the loving mother of his children Bernice (Bam) Gillespie.

Visitation will take place at St Bridget's Roman Catholic Church, in Renous, on Friday, December 13, 2024, from 4-8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Bridget’s Roman Catholic Church, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 11 am.

The family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Krugger, Dr. Rigley, the staff of the Intensive Care Unit at Miramichi Regional Hospital, Sharon Howe and Maureen Tucker for their exceptional care in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations to be made in Phonse’s memory, either directly to the family or supplies to the SPCA.

Rest in peace, Phonse, Dad, Poppy, Great Poppy: you will be forever loved and remembered.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St., telephone (506) 622-7741. Where your loved one never leaves our care.