John P. Gillespie
Grand Knight, Knights of Columbus William F. Burke/Rockaway Beach Council 2672
Born and raised in Rockaway Beach, John P.Gillespie is both a son of Irelandand a son of Rockaway. One of five children, he was one of the first members of his family born in the United States. His mother Johanna hailed from County Cork, and his father Edward from County Sligo. They emigrated to America to raise their two oldest children, Edward and Mary. John, his twin sister Theresa and his brother Chris were born at Rockaway Beach Hospital on 84th Street. Growing up, John attended St. Mary’s Star of the Sea before moving on to Far Rockaway High School. While attending Far Rockaway High School, John was one of the members of the only undefeated football team in that school’s history. The Gillespie family owned and operated the Blarney Castle on Beach 90th St. from 1952-1986, and in many ways allowed their establishment to become a supporter of Irish culture in the Rockaways. Irish step dance lessons and meetings of the local Ancient Order of Hibernians chapter were among some of the functions for which the Blarney was used.
John has been married for over 30 years to his wife Patricia (nee Block) and together they have made a name for the 2nd generation of the Gillespie family in Rockaway and beyond. They have also instilled a sense of Irish pride in their children John and Corrine, making several trips to the homeland of his parents and ancestors. Many of these trips to Ireland were for the world championships of Irish step dancing, where Corrine competed as a solo dancer. John has served as a distinguished member of the New York State Court Officers for 29 years, and is now a proud member of their pipe & drum band marching in many parades including the Queens County St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
John has also been a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus William F. Burke/Rockaway Beach Council 2672, currently serving his 3rd consecutive year as their Grand Knight. He has lead the Knights in many charitable and cultural endeavors, providing assistance for the needy as well as making the Rockaway Council a fraternity of which its members are proud to identify themselves with. He is also a vital member of the St. Rose of Lima parish, serving as both a Trustee and an usher for several years. A proud descendant of Ireland, John is also a proud and active member of the Rockaway community.