Kenneth Gilmore

Kenneth Ross Gilmore, 72, of Diamond, West Virginia, passed away on October 1, 2025, at Ruby Memorial Hospital following a tragic accident. Born on May 16, 1953, in Mullens, West Virginia, Ross was the eldest of five siblings.

Ross graduated from DuPont High School in 1971 and later earned an Associate's Degree in Computer Science from West Virginia State College in 1994. His passion for learning and dedication to personal growth were evident throughout his life.

In 1972, Ross married his high school sweetheart, Sandra L. King. Their nearly 53-year marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together they built a large and loving family that became the center of Ross's world. He was a devoted father to Angela C. Patel (Nick) of Belle; William R. Gilmore (Crystal) of Belle; Jason E. Vance (Bree) of Charleston; Beau A. Gilmore (Danae) of Charleston; Kevin A. Stambaugh (Heather) of St. Albans; Justin R. Gilmore (Jaleasa) of Belle; Michael D. Gilmore (Bre) of Nitro; and Brandon A. Gilmore (Samantha) of St. Albans.

Ross was also a cherished brother to Tracy Gilmore (Lisa) of Winston-Salem, NC; Terry Clark of Charleston; Cheryl Sutton (Buck) of Myrtle Beach, SC; and Toni Hook (Chris) of Florence, KY. He also had numerous nieces and nephews which he adored.

He was affectionately known as "Popaw" to his many grandchildren: Ryan Gilmore, Riley Gilmore, Meeya Vance, Makayla Gilmore, Aurora Gilmore, Jace Vance, Chloe Stambaugh, Olivia Gilmore, Ian Stambaugh, Kyla Gilmore, Jayvion Gilmore, Eleanor Gilmore, Blaire Gilmore, Kently Patel, Aspyn Gilmore, Hunter Stambaugh, and Asher Stambaugh—as well as numerous bonus grandchildren he was blessed to love.

Ross's legacy is one rooted deeply in family and community. Over the years he raised 27 children—biological and otherwise—offering guidance with unwavering patience and an infectious smile that lit up every room he entered. Known for never meeting a stranger and being a "kid magnet," Ross had an innate ability to connect with people across generations.

Ross found joy in life's simple pleasures, especially on the golf course or cheering for the West Virginia Mountaineers. A true sports fanatic, Ross spent countless hours coaching his children's teams in football, basketball, baseball, softball, and soccer - a role he embraced with pride and dedication.

Faith played a central role in Ross's life. He was a longtime member and choir singer at Mt. Juliet Methodist Church where he found fellowship and purpose through music and service. He also held the distinguished title of 33rd Degree Master Mason and remained a Shriner throughout his life —roles that reflected his commitment to service beyond family life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nora Darisue Hamilton and Leland Talmadge Gilmore and his grandchildren, Trinity and Trayvann Vance, and Ja'Niya Gilmore.

In keeping with his generous spirit even in passing, Ross donated his organs so that others might live—a final act emblematic of the selflessness that defined him throughout his life.

May the memory of Kenneth Ross Gilmore bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire kindness for generations to come. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 1, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Mt. Juliet Global Methodist Church located at 417 E 4th Street Belle. In honor of Ross's lifelong devotion to WVU athletics, attendees are encouraged to wear their blue and gold.