Barbara Sue Gillmore, a cherished soul known for her warmth and nurturing spirit, passed away on January 16, 2026, at the age of 85 to reunite with her best friend, soulmate, and love of her life, "Pete." Born on September 11, 1940, Barbara's life was a tapestry of love, service, and the simple joys of homemaking, which she elevated to an art form.

A member of the Center Hill Church of Christ, Barbara's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She found great joy in fellowship and was a beloved figure among the quilting ladies of the church. Together, they crafted not just quilts, but a community woven together with care and devotion, much like the intricate patterns of their handiwork.  Their works of art were distributed to the hospital for newborns and the kindergarten quilt at Crowley's Ridge Academy was always a poplar item.

Barbara's talents extended well beyond the quilting frame. She was a great cook, whose kitchen was the heart of her home. The aromas of her famous dishes were an invitation to gather, and her table was always open to family, friends, and anyone in need of a comforting meal.

Crocheting was another of Barbara's passions. With each loop and stitch, she created a legacy of beautiful, handcrafted items that warmed the bodies and hearts of those she loved.  Barbara also enjoyed working on a challenging jig saw puzzle in her spare time.

Above all, Barbara's most treasured role was that of a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love for her family was boundless, and she poured her whole self into nurturing and guiding them.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Earl "Pete" Gillmore; parents, Ernest and Jewell Patterson; and sibling, Phyllis Riggs.

Survivors include her son, Kevin Gillmore (Marcia); daughters, Suzie Watkins (Kevin), Kathy Speaks (Johnny); sister, Sharon Deffendall (Ed); grandchildren, Dallas, Sarah, Lacey, Hailey, Stephanie, Justin, Jason, Ashlyn; and great-grandchildren, Neeley Rae, Sawyer Grace, Ava Bradleigh, Evie Kayte, Greenleigh Marie, Wrenley, Bradley, Riley, Jarred, Zaxton, Blakelee, and Scout.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 17, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will be on Sunday, January 18, at 1:30 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Michael Meredith, David Deffenbaugh, Gary Cremeens, and Art Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery.

Dallas Gillmore, Justin Speaks, Jason Speaks, Cody Felty, Jarred Collins, and Zaxton Johns will serve as pallbearers.  Barbara's quilting family throughout the years at Center Hill Church of Christ will serve as honorary pallbearers.