Douglas Gillespie

Douglas Alfred Gillespie, a Destin resident of 30 years and renowned regular of Destin harbor passed away due to a heart attack on November 22, 2021. He was born in Shreveport, Louisiana on March 28, 1958, as the fifth son to Lt. Col. (Ret.) Robert W. Gillespie, and Ola Mae Guitrau. Douglas was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, James Jay Gillespie, and David W. Gillespie. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Jacqueline Marie Stanford Gillespie, and his two children, Gybe Michelle Gillespie and Tack Douglas Gillespie. He is also survived by his brothers Robert W. Gillespie, Jr. and wife Josette Cassiere of Bossier City, Louisiana, and Frederick D. Gillespie and wife Holly Leitch of Houston, Texas, and sisters-in-law, Sandra Clark Gillespie and Leigha Langston Gillespie. Douglas is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

            Douglas moved from his hometown of Shreveport to Destin, Florida in 1991 and quickly took a liking to the beach lifestyle and quiet fishing community that Destin offered. An accomplished sailor, Douglas reveled in venturing his small Laser sailboat out into the gulf, especially during challenging weather. Douglas brought this same enthusiasm and tenacity to his work. Douglas soon owned and ran a successful pool maintenance business, Resort Pool, serving clients with backyard and commercial pools all along the Emerald Coast from Destin to Rosemary Beach. Douglas was known among colleagues and clients for his ingenuity and can-do attitude. When not at work, Douglas could be found at the Destin Harbor eating oysters, watching his favorite bands, enjoying the company of friends and family, and relishing life. Douglas enjoyed playing blues guitar and held a special passion for music. He was an avid patron of many musicians and bands over the years.

            Douglas is probably best known for his accepting and generous nature. He gave unconditionally to those around him, helping many co-workers, friends, and family through the good and bad times. He was a celebrated conversationalist and prompted laughter and cheerfulness from everyone he met. He has left a lasting impact on locals and tourists. His presence will be sorely missed, but his blessed character and spirit are carried on in his friends and family.

            Celebration of Life will be held at Margaritaville bottom floor on Sunday, December 19th from 1:00 p.m.to 4:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Douglas’ spirit, please contribute to your local musicians and servers and make a cheerful impact on all those around you. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Douglas Gillespie, please visit our floral store.