55° and Patchy rain nearby
Darlene Ruth Gilmore, surrounded by family, peacefully passed away on October 20, 2026, at the age of 83 at the family home in High Rolls, NM. She was born on March 22, 1943, in Elmhurst, IL, to the late Wilhemina (Minnie) and Richard Bunker. Darlene was preceded in death by her brothers, Warren and Dick Bunker and sister-in-laws, Jan and Nancy Bunker, and brother-in-law, Howell Everett.
Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband, Thomas (Tommy) Gilmore of 65 years; daughter, Julie Bond of High Rolls, NM and husband Patrick; son, Darrell Gilmore of Alamogordo, NM, and wife Susan. Darlene’s legacy also lives on through her brother and sister-in-law, Marvin and Joyce Bunker of Alamogordo, NM; sister, Dorothy Everett of Colorado; her treasured grandchildren, Candace Muncy and her husband Isaac, Steffanie Korthuis and her husband Johnny, Shelby Brazil and her husband JT, Shannon Gilmore. Additionally, Darlene leaves behind eight great grandchildren, as well as nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
Darlene was a woman of immense kindness and compassion, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Throughout her life, she dedicated countless hours to caring for her cherished friends and family, providing unwavering support, love, and friendship. She was an exceptional cook and passed that passion down to her children and grandchildren. She was also an accomplished seamstress and spent hours making clothes and quilts for friends and family. She loved country dancing with her husband Tommy.
Darlene was an Alamogordo high school graduate of the class of 1961. In her professional career, Darlene worked at several furniture sale companies in Alamogordo, NM. She was soft spoken but her kind and warm approach to caring for her customers served her well. In retirement, she established Ma’s Pies where she would sell homemade pies and jam at a road side stand in front of the family home in High Rolls during annual Cherry and Apple festivals. She was also active in the PEO club in Alamogordo.
In accordance with Darlene's wishes, services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Alamogordo to honor her life at a later date. The compassionate staff at Alamogordo Funeral Home in Alamogordo, NM is assisting the family during this difficult time.
Darlene's memory will forever be etched in our hearts. She will be remembered as a selfless and nurturing soul, who dedicated her life to God and the wellbeing of those she held dear. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.
The family would like to express their gratitude to her caretaker, Lisa, and to the staff of Alamogordo Hospice for the kindness and compassion shown to our mother and the family.
