Loretta Gillispie, 79, of Kennewick, Washington went to meet her Lord Jesus on July 5, 2007 at home after complications from surgery. She was preceded in death by her parents, Beecher and Versie Risner; brother, Beecher Risner Jr. and sister, Malvadine Risner. Loretta was born on May 20, 1928 in Royalton, Kentucky and resided in Kennewick, Washington for the past 42 years. She was a member of the Church of Christ, located on Gum Street in Kennewick. She married her childhood sweetheart, Joe A. Gillispie on September 11, 1945 at Gun Greek near Royalton, Kentucky. During the early years of their lives, they moved around the country including Idaho, Ohio and Michigan. They were blessed with 3 children; Bonetta Jo, Patricia Gale and Rex Edwin. To stay close to their family, Joe joined the Ironworker?s Union in Cleveland as a rod buster. Following construction work, they moved their family to the Northwest. It was difficult for Loretta to leave her parents and siblings but her love and dedication to her marriage and family was her priority. She was known for her ability to crochet beautiful blankets, hats, scarves and ponchos for her grandchildren. Loretta learned from her mother, Versie, the art of making quilts. They have become the treasures of her family. She will be remembered by her family for making the best fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, vegetable soup, hush puppies and homemade jellies. We have all reaped from Joe?s bountiful garden of vegetables which Loretta would preserve. She was an avid homemaker and loved taking care of her family and beloved husband who tenderly called her ?babe?. She grew some of the most gorgeous roses, creating beautiful bouquets. Loretta loved listening and singing to the old hymns. In their younger years, Loretta and Joe would go camping and walleye fishing with their friends. It was nothing new to see them sporting a new motor home. She was the favored aunt by many nieces and nephews. Her memories will live on for many years with her family and friends. Loretta is survived by her husband, Joe A. Gillispie of 61 years; brother, Paul Oma Risner of Lexington, KY; sister-in-law, Janet; children Bonetta Terry Day, Trish Karl Kiichle and Rex Connie Gillispie of Kennewick, WA. Grandchildren: Ken Sandee Day, Kem Day, David Sara Carter, Trisha Dan Garcia, Jolene Carter, April Dan O?Rourke, Brent Jodi Gillispie and Mandy Kyle Bateman. Sixteen great-grandchildren: Zac, Zane, Samantha, Jolynn, Karli, Wyatt, Abby, Colton, Austin, Gracie, Gage, Tatum, Gwyneth, Justin, Kelin and Baylee which made for memorable Christmas Eves. Private family graveside services will take place prior to her Memorial Services which will be at 11:00am, Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at Cathedral of Joy, 1153 Gage Blvd., Richland, WA. In her memory, donations can be made to the Special Olympics of the Tri-Cities, 8911 W. Grandridge Blvd, Suite P, Kennewick, WA 99336.