John E. “Gil” Gilmore

Age 67 and a former resident of Coal City, Illinois, died May 19, 2026 in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Born October 9, 1958, in Morris, Illinois, John Edward was the youngest child of Henry and Ruth Gilmore. Affectionately known as “Gil,” he was raised in Coal City, where he attended local schools and graduated from Coal City High School with the Class of 1976.

From his earliest years, Gil had a passion for baseball that would remain a defining part of his life. Growing up alongside his older brothers, he was swinging a bat almost as soon as he could walk. Even the family dog, Susie, became part of his practice routine, faithfully retrieving pieces of dog food that Gil would send flying with his bat. What began as childhood fun developed into a lifelong love of the game and a remarkable appreciation for the sport.

Gil continued his baseball career at Joliet Junior College, Northern Illinois University, and Lewis University. His knowledge of the game and keen eye for talent eventually led him to serve as a regional scout for several professional baseball organizations, allowing him to remain connected to a sport that had brought him so much enjoyment throughout his life.

Professionally, Gil worked as a draftsman for the Mobil Refinery while residing in Illinois. Following his relocation to Colorado, he continued his career, lending his skills and experience to various corporations.

Although quiet and reserved by nature, Gil possessed a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit that those closest to him knew and appreciated. He had a special knack for giving nicknames to nearly everyone he knew, a reflection of his playful personality and the unique connections he shared with others. Among his most treasured traditions were the annual trips to Indianapolis for the Indianapolis 500, where time spent alongside his closest friends created lasting memories and stories to be shared for years to come.

Survivors include his siblings, Bonnie (John) Harris and Don (Holly) Gilmore; nieces: Jennifer Harris and Laurel (Chris) Pramuk; nephews: James (Amanda) Harris, Rob (Jennifer) Harris, Derek (Denise) Gilmore, and Brian (Karen) Gilmore.

Gil was preceded in death by his parents, and his oldest brother, Ken.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday October 25, 2026 at Mustachio’s Bar and Grill in Carbon Hill between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Gil’s memorial page online through social media.