Esther K. Gillespie, 95, a longtime Pullman resident passed away March 18, 2017 at Pullman Regional Hospital surrounded by her family. Esther was born April 7, 1921 in Elgin, Iowa to John & Harriet (Riedel) Smith. She spent her early childhood in Iowa and North Dakota before moving with her family to Spokane, WA where she graduated from Otis Orchards High school in 1940. After high school she went to work at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, joining her sister Ferne and brother-in-law Tony Talarico. Esther married Archie Becker in 1942 and they had two daughters, Kathy & Maxine. They later divorced. In 1958 the family moved to Pullman and Esther became employed at the WSU Student Book Store. She enjoyed being on campus, working there until her official retirement in 1981. She married Leroy Gillespie in 1974 in Pullman. In addition to raising the family Esther had a wonderful and keen sense of humor for which she will always be remembered. Esther and Leroy enjoyed traveling including trips to Hawaii, Mexico, Tucson and Las Vegas. She also enjoyed baking and cooking throughout her lifetime. Esther was always active in her support of the Shriners Hospital for Children. Esther is survived by her daughters Kathy Lloyd of Colfax and Maxine (Jim) Williamson of Seattle; her six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Leroy, her parents, 2 sisters and 5 brothers. A celebration of Esther's life will be held at a later date. A family graveside service was held at the Pullman Cemetery where she was laid to rest next to her beloved husband. Kimball Funeral Home of Pullman, WA has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorial donations are suggested to the Shriners Hospital for Children or to the Pullman Regional Hospital Foundation.