Jean Bacon Gilmore

Surrounded by her family, Jean Bacon Gilmore peacefully transitioned to her eternal home on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Born on March 6, 1942, to the late Margaret and Albert Bacon, Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Evelyn Flynn, Thelma Badger, Caretta Stewart, and Joan Green; and her brothers Albert, John, and Alvie Bacon.

She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her husband of 60 years, Nolan Gilmore; son Antonio Gilmore; daughters Kimberly Gilmore-Bryant and Tara Gilmore West (Corey); and grandchildren Kiersten Gilmore, Joseph Bryant, Rebekah Bryant, Christina Bryant, Nigel West, and Zola West. She is also survived by her sisters Shirley Bartley, Hazel Moses (Felton), Carolyn Bentley (Charles), and Jeraldine Powell, along with a host of extended family and cherished friends—many of whom became family.

Jean attended Douglas Anderson School from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating with the Class of 1961. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies from Edward Waters College and a Master’s Degree in Education from Jacksonville University.

For 32 years, Jean taught in Duval County Public Schools, primarily as a first-grade teacher. She touched the lives of countless students and their families, building lasting relationships that extended well beyond the classroom. Jean delighted in children throughout her life and would often stop to chat with them and their parents, marveling at their personalities and cuteness. Even after leaving the classroom, she continued caring for children through babysitting and by maintaining close connections with her school families.

Jean was known for her kindness, warm smile, and genuine care for others—along with her strong opinions and willingness to speak her mind. She embraced all people.

Jean and Nolan relished their retirement years. They enjoyed cruising to many Caribbean islands and Alaska, as well as jetting off to destinations throughout Europe with special friends. It was never a surprise to hear them say they were heading out on a road trip for the week or weekend—whether to explore somewhere new or simply to enjoy time together away from home. Jean and Nolan cherished one another.

Jean loved being “Meme.” She and Nolan delighted in spoiling their grandchildren, taking them on memorable trips to places like North Carolina for apple and blueberry picking, Myrtle Beach, Massanutten, Virginia, Tampa, and Disney. She was all about making memories with her family. Twice, she orchestrated family road trips from Florida to Maine, and later to Vermont and Montreal, to ensure the family could experience a white Christmas together. Jean was always eager to capture special moments and was often heard saying, “Where’s the camera?” When she couldn’t be with her grandchildren in person, she sent them packages—sometimes at great cost—saying with a smile, “That’s what grandparents do!”

Jean was an active communicant of the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour, where she served as a lector, participated in the Flower Guild, assisted with the funeral reception team through Helping Hands, and was a member of The Order of the Daughters of the King. She faithfully prepared monthly after-church snacks and spent many years as a Kids’ Word teacher, building strong relationships with the children of COOS.

A gifted cook with a true passion for hospitality, Jean loved hosting family and friends in her home. Her meals were delicious, and she ensured every table was beautifully set. Christmas dinners often included more non-family guests than relatives, reflecting her generous spirit. During the COVID-19 pandemic and in the years that followed, Jean prepared weekly meals for widows in her community and, with Nolan’s help, personally delivered them.

Jean was a longtime member of the Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) Fitness Center, where she stayed active through cardio and group fitness classes. She formed many close friendships with fellow members and was affectionately known by some as “the Mayor.” She was also a dedicated Associate member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., a Silhouette of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Jean’s legacy of love, service, and hospitality will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to Episcopal Church of Our Saviour–Jacksonville.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 26, from 4:00–6:00 p.m., and a Memorial Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 27, at 11:00 a.m., both at Episcopal Church of Our Saviour, 12236 Mandarin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32223.