Mary A. Gilmore, a cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Unity Point, St. Lukes Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at the age of 73. Born on February 2, 1951, in Maquoketa, Iowa, Mary was the loving daughter of Sherman E. and Blanche M. (Paasch) McCallister.

Mary graduated from Andrew High School in 1969, where she fostered a love for learning and community involvement. It was during her time as a nurse’s aide at the local hospital that she met Thomas “Tom” Gilmore, a patient who would become her husband. The two were united in marriage on April 28, 1973, in Maquoketa, and welcomed their son, Jeremy, into the world, completing their family.

Professionally, Mary was the cornerstone of her family’s businesses. She managed the office and bookkeeping for Tom Gilmore Repair, and later for T & J Manufacturing, which was founded in 1982. Mary’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering support were instrumental in the success of these ventures. She retired in 2010.

Mary’s life was a testament to her faith and her love for the arts. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, where she shared her musical talents by singing in the choir. Her passion for theater shone brightly through her involvement with the Peace Pipe Players, to which she contributed as an assistant director. Mary’s love for music extended beyond the church and theater; she was an avid fan of Elvis Presley, often traveling to Graceland and attending numerous tribute concerts.

Those left to honor Mary’s memory include her husband, Thomas “Tom” Gilmore of Maquoketa; her son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Sandy Gilmore of Maquoketa; her siblings, Richard “Dick” (Kathy Felten) McCallister of Maquoketa, and Nancy Jamison of Maquoketa; in-laws, Larry and Lorraine Gilmore, John and Alice Gilmore, and Lowell Henry, all of Maquoketa; along with several loving nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Joyce Bradshaw; and sisters-in-law, Diana Henry and LeAnn McCallister.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, Mary A. Gilmore memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.CarsonAndSon.com.