Birth Date: 07/27/1937
Deceased Date: 05/29/2024
Nola Mae Gilmore, affectionately known as “Mema,” passed peacefully into the loving arms of our Lord, surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the age of 86. Born in Johnston County on July 27, 1937, she was the cherished daughter of the late Luther James Broadwell and Neta Batten Broadwell.
Along with her beloved husband Rayvon, Nola was a dedicated advocate for victim’s rights, pioneering North Carolina’s first Parents of Murdered Children group. Her heart overflowed with generosity as she graciously welcomed countless souls into her home, offering solace and support to friends, family, and 28 foster children alike, giving selflessly whenever she could, and even when resources were scarce.
A beacon of love and faith, Nola touched the lives of many as a devoted wife, grandmother, sister, and unwavering woman of Christ. Her unwavering convictions guided her every step, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. As she journeys to her heavenly abode, we find solace in knowing she walks in eternal grace.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Rayvon Gilmore, Sr. in 2014, her son, William Rayvon “Ray” Gilmore, Jr. in 1982, and daughter Crystal Faith Gilmore in 1957, Nola leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will endure through the ages.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law Teresa Kay Terrell of Micro, step-son-in-law Michael Ray Arthur of Smithfield, grandchildren Christopher Rayvon Gilmore and wife Jessica Marie Gilmore of Selma, Dr. Amy Celeste Woodruff and husband Brandon Shane Woodruff of Princeton, and great-grandchildren Dyson Lee Brown, Caiden Ray Brown, Hunter Reid Brown, William Rayvon Gilmore III, and Christian Ryan Gilmore. She is also survived by her sister Peggy Gower of Apex.
Visitation with the family will be on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 2 PM until 3 PM at Wilson’s Mills Church of God, prior to the funeral services.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3 PM Monday, June 3, 2024, at Wilson’s Mills Church of God in Wilson’s Mills, with interment following at Knollwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Clayton Police Department 315 E Second Street Clayton NC 27520.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at Parrishfh.com
