Mary Ellen Gilmore O'Rourke

1947 - 2024

Mary Ellen Gilmore O'Rourke

June 7, 1947 - July 19, 2024

Mary Ellen Gilmore O'Rourke, cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on July 19, 2024, at the age of 77.

She was born on June 7, 1947, the daughter of Lyle K and Betty L. (Melton) Brent. She graduated from Bloomington High School. She married David A. Gilmore on May 1, 1965, in Normal. David and Mary Ellen had three sons, Gregory (Patricia), Jeffrey (Danielle) and Don (Lori). David passed away on May 3, 1985. Sadly, Gregory also departed us too soon, on September 1, 2023.

She later married Michael J. O'Rourke, and he preceded her in death on February 28, 2017.

Along with her two sons and daughters-in-law, she is also survived by two stepchildren, Michael (Laura) O'Rourke, Puyallup, WA, and Beth O'Rourke (Dan Lindoerfer), Palm Harbor, FL; a brother, Rodney (Renate) Brent, Bloomington; twelve grandchildren, Matthew Gilmore, Lauren Gilmore, Jacob Gilmore, Jackson Gilmore, Ella Gilmore, Madison Gilmore, Amelia Gilmore, Parker Gilmore, Harry Gilmore, Steven (Bethany) Mullins, Connor O'Rourke, and Collin O'Rourke; nieces and nephews, Mark and Patti Brent, Bloomington, Laura (Brent), and John Wright, Atlanta, GA, Beth Brent, Bloomington; and her dear friend, Ruth Griffin, Bloomington.

She was also preceded in death by a stepson, John Patrick O'Rourke.

Her memorial visitation will be from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Carmody-Flynn Funeral Home, Bloomington. There will be a private family service at an earlier time.

Mary Ellen was a woman of warmth, grace, and deep love for her family, who she held close in her heart throughout her life. Mary Ellen lived a life full of cherished memories. She had a special talent for decorating. Mary Ellen enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, including a good glass of wine and long, meaningful conversations on the phone. Her friends and family could always count on her for a listening ear and heartfelt advice. Her warmth and wisdom were a guiding light for many.

Spending time with her family was Mary Ellen's greatest joy. She loved gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories, and creating lasting memories. Dinners at Jim's Steakhouse were a special tradition, filled with delicious food and lively conversation.

Mary Ellen's spirit will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Her family will continue to honor her memory and the beautiful life she led.

May she rest in peace and be united with her son, Gregory, and all her loved ones that left us too soon.

To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.