Kathleen Deering Gilmer (lovingly called Dear), 101, of Carolina, WV passed away at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital on February 4, 2022.

Kathleen was born in Pittsylvania County, Axton, VA on September 30, 1920. She is the eldest sibling of seven from the late Daniel Harrison Deering, Sr. and the late Ollie Davis Deering. She was predeceased by her husband, John William Gilmer.

Kathleen was a faithful member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Carolina, WV and active member of the community. Kathleen was kind, compassionate, and loved by everyone she met. Kathleen's hobbies were quilting, knitting, seamstress, gardening, cooking, and caring for her family.

She is survived by five daughters, Addie "Marie" Jefferson (Carolina, WV), Olivia Jones (Inkster, MI), Gwendolyn (Ralph) Sumlin (Fairmont, WV), Lori Stephens-Cooley (Morgantown, WV), and Susan Smith (Collinsville, VA); two sons, Michael Jones (Carolina, WV), and the late Maurice "Butchie" Gilmer. Additionally, Kathleen raised her granddaughter, Angela (Toni) Cani and held temporary guardianship of Jaimess "Boogie" Auvil.

Kathleen is survived by two sisters, Lois McCoy (Detroit, MI) and Levern Roher (Axton, VA); 17 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was predeceased by three brothers, Dennis Deering (Danville, VA), Daniel Deering, Jr. (Cascade, VA), and Delaware Deering (Axton, VA); one sister, Geneva Wright (Detroit, MI); two grandsons, Mark Jefferson and Maurice Gilmer, Jr.; and one great grandson, Andrew Jefferson.

A celebration of life memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on April 9, 2022 at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. Online condolences may be send to the family at www.domicofh.com.