Merna Dee Gilmore

Merna Gilmore, 95 of Aledo, died Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at her home. Funeral services will be Friday at 10:30 AM at Sunbeam United Presbyterian Church, rural Aledo. Burial will be in Aledo Cemetery. Visitation is Thursday from 5 to 7 PM at Speer Funeral Home, Aledo. Memorials may be made to the Sunbeam United Presbyterian Church or to your favorite charity. Merna Dee was born on October 16, 1921 in Alden, Kansas to Joseph C. & Vada D. (Holmes) Vincent. She married Ralph Gilmore on September 5, 1945 in Alden, Kansas. Merna was a devoted member of the Sunbeam United Presbyterian Church, where she was a member of the Women’s Association and taught Sunday School. She also invited neighbors into her home for over 40 years for a Home Bible Study. Merna was also a member of PEO, Chapter H; Mercer County History Forum; Mercer County Home Economists and the Mercer County Home Extension. She enjoyed 4-H, both as a member and as a leader; gardening; flower arranging and was known for her hospitality. Merna and Ralph traveled to all 50 states and various other locations, including Israel, a favorite. She was also known as the “Barn Lady” for her many programs and talk on barns. Merna is survived by her husband of 71 years, Ralph; 3 daughters and sons-in-law: Marcia Dee & James Sparks of Winterset, IA; Glennys & Gary Doane of Downs, KS and Linda & Lee Tank of Bettendorf, IA; 9 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and one lovingly expected. She was preceded in death by her parents; 1 brother, 2 sisters and a grandson, Nathan Sparks.