Catherine Gilmore

Mrs. Catherine Mathis Gilmore was born on October 3, 1945, in Dawson, Georgia, to Henry Lee Mathis Sr., and Ruby J. Mathis. She received her education in Terrell County, Dawson, Georgia, before moving to Atlanta in the early 1970s.

Early in life, Catherine joined Piney Grove Baptist Church. She later became a devoted member of Mount Welcome Missionary Baptist Church, where she faithfully served for nearly 40 years. During her time there, she sang with the Spiritual Jubilees Choir, leading many songs, and was an active member of the Missionary Ministry. Catherine also shared in the Crestview Nursing Home Ministry each first Sunday, ministering to others with love and compassion. Alongside her husband Robert, she joined the church's prayer call, believing firmly that "prayer is the key to the kingdom." Catherine was also a regular participant in Sunday school and served faithfully in the culinary ministry, where she helped prepare countless delicious meals.

Catherine worked for many years as a cook, a role she cherished until her retirement. Even after retiring, Catherine remained active-spending time helping others, tending her yard, traveling, enjoying family, watching wrestling, attending church, and sitting peacefully on her porch.

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, at her home surrounded by the love of her family, Catherine peacefully transitioned in her sleep. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lee Gilmore; parents, Henry Lee Mathis, Sr., and Ruby J. Mathis; sisters, Minnie White and Lula Hunter-Roberts; brothers, Henry Lee Mathis, Jr., and Willie Hunter; and three of her children, Ruby Lee Mathis, Willie James Mathis, and Marie Harvey Hendrix.

Catherine leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted son Eddie Avery; five beloved grandchildren-Kentrell and Jasiman (children of Marie), and Elijah, Dylan, and Kayla (children of Eddie); four great-grandchildren-Sylar, Sanai, Sydnei, and Samira; cherished niece, Connie Clark; special friends, Alphonso Gary and Betty Willis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her loving church family.

Her life was one of faith, service, love, and joy. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.