Smithfield – Martha Harper Gilmore, age 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday September 17, 2024 at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield. She was born in Wake County on May 17, 1941 to the late "B.A" Harper and Emma Elizabeth Spence Harper. In addition to her father and mother, she is also preceded in death by her husband, Roy Gene Gilmore; sisters, Alene Holland, Mary Evans (her twin sister), and Jerlene Bagley; brothers, J.B. Harper, and Johnny Harper; son in law, Rod Edwards.

The family will receive visitors in the chapel of Parrish Funeral Home on Saturday September 21, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. The funeral service will follow the visitation on Saturday at 2:00 PM. Burial will be held in Knollwood memorial park directly after the service in the chapel on Saturday.

Martha is survived by her sons, Rodney Gilmore and wife Jennifer of Smithfield, Roger Gilmore and wife Donna of Smithfield; daughter, Beth Edwards of Clayton; sister, Frances Barbour of Clayton; 6 grandchildren, Russell Edwards and wife Trina of Smithfield, Brandon Edwards of Clayton, Chase Gilmore and wife Amber of California, Wesley Gilmore and wife Monica, Bryan Gilmore  all of Colorado, and Brenna Furr and husband Lawson of Texas; 2 great grandchildren, Logan and Luke Gilmore of Colorado; fur baby, Mr. Cash (family pet).

Martha retired from 31 years of service at Burlington Industries and 7 years at UNC Johnston Health. She loved working in her garden with her beautiful flowers that everyone adored. She spent many years as a state champion at horse shoe throwing. Every one knew they could play horse shoes with Martha and leave with a trophy. Martha also spent many Friday nights playing bingo at the Smithfield Moose Lodge.

Martha and Gene were married 63 years. He was the love of her life. She spent the last 7 years of her life taking care of him through his sickness, always putting him before herself.

The family would like to say a special thank you to a wonderful caregiver and friend who cared for Martha and Gene, Mrs. Pennie Richardson of Selma. Also, a special thank you to all the doctors, nurses, and staff at UNC Johnston Health Smithfield and the SECU Hospice house in Smithfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the SECU Hospice House. Donations can be sent to Johnston Health Foundation PO Box 1376 Smithfield, NC 27577 Attn: Hospice Fund.