Damon "Mark" Gillispie

Damon Mark Gillispie, 63, of Amarillo, Texas passed away November 9, 2025.

Born on April 16, 1962, in Dumas, Texas, Mark lived a life marked by dedication to education, athletics, and the people he held dear. Mark graduated from Dumas High School in 1980, where he was a proud member of the Dumas Demons football team. His talent on the field earned him varsity status during his junior and senior years, along with all-district Honorable Mention and Second Team All-District honors' His passion for football continued into college when he walked on to the Buffalo football team at West Texas State University in the spring of 1981. Though a shoulder injury cut short his playing career, Mark's love for the game endured. Mark also met his former spouse, Renee Luers, a softball player at West Texas State University, marrying her in 1982.

ln December 1984, Mark earned his degree in Secondary Education from West Texas State University. He then pursued a career in college coaching that took him across the country His coaching journey included positions at Abilene Christian University, Eastern New Mexico University, The University of New Haven, Illinois State University, and Iowa Wesleyan College.' Through these roles, Mark influenced countless young athletes with his knowledge of the game and commitment to their growth.

After stepping away from coaching, Mark transitioned into the sporting goods industry where he thrived as a salesman for over 15 years. His charisma and deep understanding of sports made him a natural fit in this field. After moving back to Amarillo in 2011, Mark met his current fiancée Pam Cananza Ferguson.

Mark was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his vibrant personality. He was a gifted storyteller who could bring any tale to life with humor and heart.' Whether recounting past adventures or spinning everyday moments into unforgettable narratives, he had a way of leaving listeners laughing and wanting more. His loyalty ran deep-he stood by his friends and family with unwavering devotion and extended that same fierce loyalty to his beloved pets.

Mark is survived by his fiancée Pam Cananza Ferguson; father Gladwin Yuel Gillispie and wife Suzanne Gillispie; brother Cary Shawn Gillispie and wife Jenny; nephews Gagestone Yale Gillispie and Grant Yves Gillispie; niece Oaklee Gillispie; aunt Jennifer Smith Owens; cousin Brian Chisum; step-siblings Michael and Jennifer Gerber, Lori Forbus Jessica Klein, La Donna (Deannie) Wells, Robert Haire; and former spouse, Renee Luers Gillispie.

He was preceded in death by his mother Marilyn Gillispie Haire; stepfather Charles Haire; brother Chad Gillispie; nephew Loagan Helton; Sister in law Megan Gillispie; and stepsister Krista Smith.

May Damon Mark Gillispie's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all who were touched by his warmth, humor, and steadfast spirit.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 03:00 PM to 04:00 PM at Boxwell Brothers Funeral Ivy Chapel 2800 Paramount Blvd. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.