Leeaner Carol Gilmore, born on June 2, 1947, was a cherished daughter of Woodrow and Pearl Johnson. Raised in a loving home rooted in faith and family, she grew into a woman whose spirit and unwavering devotion touched everyone she encountered.

After graduating from Anna Strong High School in May 1966, Leeaner united in holy matrimony with Raymond James Gilmore on August 9, 1966. Together they welcomed four children, each one reflecting on the love, nurturing and guidance she so faithfully gave as a devoted mother.

Leeaner accepted Christ at the tender age of nine under the leadership of Rev. E.R. Gaines at Mt. Mariah Missionary Baptist Church, marking the beginning of a steadfast walk with the Lord. After marriage, she became a faithful member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Spencer Brown and later united with New Hope Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Fredric C. Smith. She served in many roles in the church including choir director for many years at St. John M.B. Church and Director of P.L.M.&D District Choir.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Leeaner was employed for several years at Sanyo Manufacturing and later served the Lee County School District with pride. She also contributed her voice and leadership as a member of the Lee County School Board. Yet, of all her roles, her greatest and most treasured work was that of a homemaker for her family and caretaker for her mother. She expressed her love most beautifully through her cooking—meals that brought comfort, joy and togetherness to family and friends alike.

Leeaner was preceded in death by her parents, her two beloved sisters, Elizabeth Westbrook and Pearl Jean Dukes and her husband, Raymond Gilmore, whose memories remained dear to her heart.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her son, Tony (Karen) Gilmore of Memphis, TN; her daughters, Roenna Mitchell, Melinda (Alvin) Peer both of Little Rock, AR and Brenda (Michael) Garlington of Conway, AR; her grandchildren, Alexx Easter, Jr. of Little Rock, AR, Michael Garlington, Jr. of Maumelle, AR, Tobias Gilmore, Kyla Peer and Christian Peer all of Dallas, TX, Tamari Gilmore of Memphis, TN and Tyler Garlington of Cape Girardeau, MO; and her great-grandson, Mekhi Garlington of Maumelle, AR. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, great-nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Throughout her life, Leeaner was known for her kindness, her strength and her unwavering faith. Her legacy of love, service and family devotion will continue to shine brightly through all who were blessed to know her.