Mr. Freddie Lee Gilmore

UTICA - Mr. Freddie Lee Gilmore, age 83, went home to Heaven on Sunday, October 24, 2021, with his devoted family by his side. Freddie was born on May 9, 1938 in Marked Tree, Arkansas, to the late Billy and Henrietta Gilmore. There he remained to be raised and educated until 1966, when Freddie relocated with his wife to Utica to be closer to siblings who had already made Utica their home. Freddie had met the former Dorothy Perry and their love began at a very young age. The pair marked their union on May 17, 1963 and were fortunate to witness their love grow richer and deeper over the years. Their union was blessed with children, and countless amusing memories. Dorothy and Freddie shared many laughs together until the end; she was right by Freddie’s side for all his life, and for his passing into the next. A man known for inspiring delight and laughter in others, Freddie was immensely caring and would do anything for anyone. Additionally, he was a committed worker, who put in hard days as a machine operator at Utica Alloys. Each day at work, Freddie would eagerly anticipate returning home to his cherished family. He retired from the company in 1999. Freddie was skilled at discovering fun ways to seize the day! He and Dorothy hosted the yearly famous 4th of July cookout at their home, where all were welcome to attend for a dish of food and a great time. Freddie’s grilling and Dorothy’s potato salad shone as the stars of the event. Freddie also appreciated his fishing trips to the beautiful Lake Moraine. With each catch, Freddie would bone and prepare the fish himself. He was even an unofficial mechanic; that is, many considered him their “go-to” man ~ once again his generosity prevailed. A loving father, Freddie was the patriarch of the family. His children loved and respected him, as he did for them. Freddie never had any favorites, but instead loved each of his children with all his heart. He imparted to them many of his hobbies, passions, and memories, including the long car rides they had taken, and stopping for ice cream. Freddie received so much joy from his children, and subsequently, his grandchildren. He was grateful for the chance to spend the time with the grandkids and was known to also keep them in check! Every one of Freddie’s family members learned something from him and will always remember his desire for laughter. Freddie was fortunate to have a devoted and good woman as a wife, children who loved and respected him, and grandchildren who lit up his life. The difficult parts of his life came when it was time for him to go home; though he will be sorely missed, everyone respected his departure. It is necessary that everyone remember Freddie’s famous quote, “be cool, don’t be a fool”, and he truly meant it! Freddie was a faithful man whose life and home teachings kept him close to the Lord. He attended Friendship Baptist Church, where Reverend March was his respected pastor. Freddie is survived by his beloved wife, Dot; and his children and their loves, Faye Gilmore, Ricky Gilmore and Samantha, Darryl Gilmore and Shymil, and Robert Gilmore and Nicole. He will be fondly remembered by all 16 of his grandchildren, his host of great-grandchildren and the whole family. Freddie will be reunited in Heaven with his siblings who passed before him, Junior, Charlie, Woodrow, Georgia and Eddie, Florence and Willie James, Mary Jane, and Gertrude. He will also leave behind many nieces, especially Sandra King, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and his in-laws, Clayborn, Leon, Margaret, Maudie, and Rosette. Moreover, Freddie was blessed with wonderful friends in his journey of life. He was further predeceased by his nephews, Ernest “Ernie” Clark, Aaron Eaddy, Terry Gilmore, Eddie “Babe” King Jr., Henry King and Nancy, Sandra King, and Al Tolbert, Sr. The Gilmore Family would like to extend their gratitude to the staffs of the ICU and ED at MVHS at St. Luke’s Healthcare. An additional thank you is extended to the Utica Fire Department Paramedics for their gracious services rendered. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 1, 2021, from 11:00 to 12:00 noon at Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Freddie’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life Service will follow at 12:00 at the funeral home. Interment will follow graveside in Forest Hill Cemetery.

Mr. Freddie Lee Gilmore

May 9, 1938 - October 24, 2021