Tommy Joe “Papa” Gilmore, 70, of Tivoli, Texas, passed away Saturday, October 2, 2021 in Victoria, Texas. He was born in Duncan, Oklahoma to Buster “J.R.” and Virginia Gilmore on January 27, 1951. He graduated from Comanche High School in 1969. He joined the U.S. Army serving in the Vietnam War where he became a PVT, exiting as a Staff Sargent, during that time, he received three purple hearts for his brave actions. Tommy then worked in the oilfield industry working his way up to Construction Manager contracted to Energy Transfer Partners.
His greatest joys were spending time with his family, rodeo, fishing, and golf. With a heart of pure gratitude, he was always willing to help anyone at any time. Tommy married JuAnn Carter, on March 1, 1992.
He is survived by his wife, JuAnn Carter Gilmore; sister, Beverly Clark (Jimmie) of Comanche, Oklahoma; daughters, Jennifer Couch (Chad) of Duncan, Oklahoma, Tia Desirena (Victor) of Mexico, Tyelynn Brock of Goliad; Charlene Villarreal (Derrick) of Tivoli and son-in-law Roger Lee of Tivoli. Tommy enjoyed being Papa to his 15 grandchildren, Uncle to 10 nieces/nephews, and Great Uncle to 19 great nieces/nephews.
Tommy was a light in this world to those who knew him and is now one of the angels in Heaven watching over all of us. He is missed in this world, but there is an old time reunion going on in Heaven with all that have gone before him.
In addition to his parents, Buster “J.R.” and Virginia Shelby Gilmore, Tommy was preceded in death by his daughter, Raelyn Lee; brothers, Bobby Wayne Gilmore and Ricky Dale Gilmore; and niece, Anna Lisa Clark.
Tommy was the strongest pillar in the family and was willing to help any family member or friend in need.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 11, 2021 from 1 to 2 pm at Rosewood Funeral Chapel with a Memorial Service to begin at 2 pm. Full military honors under the auspices of the Victoria County Veterans Council will take place after the memorial service at Rosewood. The family will have a celebration after the services. Share memories with the family at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com
