Juanita V. Gilmore, 101, of Pittsburg, Kansas, died at 7:22 p.m. Sunday, May 26, 2024, at the Health Care Resort of Kansas. Just 105 days shy of her 102nd birthday, she died of natural causes after living a long and blessed life. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
She was born Juanita Velora Mae Gaines on September 8, 1922, to Mrytle M. Miller in Yale, Kansas, where she also grew up and attended school.
In her early adult years, Juanita became a mother to two daughters, Patricia June (1940) and Barbara Jean (1942), who both preceded her in death.
Juanita married Edward S. Gilmore on June 8, 1952, and remained married until his death on January 3, 1994.
Juanita worked briefly at the Kansas Ordnance Plant in Parsons but primarily worked as a housekeeper and nanny to renowned families in the Pittsburg and Fort Scott, Kansas areas prior to her retirement.
For more than 60 years, Juanita was a member of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church in Pittsburg, KS, where she was a member of the adult choir and served as the church secretary for multiple decades.
Juanita was also a prominent member of the Prince Hall Grand Chapter of the Kansas Order of the Eastern Star, where she held esteemed positions, including Grand Worthy Matron from 1993 to 1994.
Since 2021, Juanita has been a resident of Health Care Resort in Kansas City, Kansas where she quickly became known as the "beloved grandma" due to the warmth, wisdom, and love she gave to many of the staff members.
Her surviving family members include 4 granddaughters: Carla D. Turner, Karen L. Eldridge, LaTaunya M. Martin, and Rolanda R. Williams; 15 great-grandchildren, and 19 great-great-grandchildren. What a legacy!
She was preceded in death by many family members and friends.
Her funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at the Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS. Burial will follow at the Fort Scott National Cemetery.
Family Acknowledgement:
Our sorrow is easier to bear with the help of friends like you. We want you to know how much we appreciate all that you have done for us in our time of need. The family wishes to express sincere thanks for the many acts of love and kindness. We pray for God's blessing on each of you.
