Gloria C. Gilmore

NEW GLOUCESTER — Gloria C. Gilmore, 79, of New Gloucester, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Aug. 12, 2011.

She was born in Lisbon Falls, Nov. 7, 1931, the daughter of Clyde S. Coombs and Marjorie (Foss) Coombs. She was raised and educated in Mechanic Falls and was married to Arthur W. Gilmore Sr. of Indian Orchard, Mass.

Gloria and Art Sr. owned and operated Gilmore’s Auto Service on Route 100 in New Gloucester for more than 50 years along with their son, Art Jr. She also worked for Sears, WMTW-8, and later began a career at WHOM 94.9. During her 25 years at WHOM, she enjoyed helping co-workers, welcoming clients and meeting celebrities.

She raised two children, Art Jr. and Carol, taught Sunday school at the New Gloucester Congregational Church, and was an active member of the Sabbathday Lake Grange. She enjoyed sharing stories with family and friends, meeting new people, and the sense of community among her neighbors.

Many described Gloria as polite, sincere, kind, social and “jazzy.” Her hobbies included crossword puzzles, card games, soap operas and reminding others about registration and inspection due dates. She brought a smile to everyone she met.

She is survived by her sister, Elaine (Coombs) Rowe of Lisbon Falls; her daughter, Carol E. Howard of Raymond; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

Gloria was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Arthur W. Gilmore Sr.; a sister, Glendine (Coombs) Bunker of Cumberland; her son, Arthur W. Gilmore Jr. of Poland Spring.

All are welcome to join in a celebration of Gloria’s life on Thursday, Aug. 18, to be held at Wilson Funeral Home on Route 26 in Gray from 6 to 8 p.m.

In lieu flowers, memorial donations may be made to New Gloucester Fire and Rescue, 611 Lewiston Road, New Gloucester, ME 04260.