John Francis “Jack” Gilmore, Jr., 93, of Shell Knob, Mo. passed away Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at his home.

He was born June 17, 1930, in Auburn, Calif. the son of John Francis Gilmore, Sr. and Ruth Windsor (Crane) Gilmore, who preceded him in death.

Also preceding him in death were three sisters, Ginny Gibbs, Ruth Foster and Fran Brown.

Survivors include his companion of 46 years, Margaret Wooldridge; two sons, John Francis Gilmore III and his wife Ann of Springfield, Mo. and Robin Dridge and his wife Lana of Farmers Branch, Texas; five daughters, Kerry Muldowney and her husband Jim of Greensboro, N.C., Karla Gilmore of Springfield, Mo., Kendra Gilmore of Springfield, Mo., Tess Elliott and her husband Garry of Cassville, Mo. and Debbie Brown of San Clemente, Calif.; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

He grew up in Red Bluff, Calif. and graduated from Red Bluff High School, later attending Regents of the University of California graduating on January 29, 1953, where he attained a Bachelor of Science in animal husbandry. After graduating college he received a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army and served in the Korean War from March 23, 1953 until March 9, 1955. Upon returning from his service, he became a pilot and also worked for cattle ranches in Calif. He had lived in Shell Knob for 47 years moving there from Ark. Jack and Margaret owned and operated Whip-Poor-Will Resort in Shell Knob for many years. He was of the Catholic faith.

Private services will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.