Mary Louise Gilmore, affectionately known as "Lou" or "Lou-Lou," was born on March 23, 1953, in Greenwood, South Carolina, to the late Louis Felts and Bernice Carter. She peacefully entered eternal rest on October 9, 2025.

Lou was a homebound member of Johns's Creek Baptist Church in Greenwood, SC. She graduated from Greenwood High School, where she was known for her energetic spirit playing softball, running track, and never backing down from a fight.

An avid reader of all genres, Lou cherished the joy of a good book. After high school, she began her career with U.S. Textiles, where she worked diligently until retirement. Upon returning home to Greenwood, she joined the Carolina Pride family, where she later retired from her favorite place of employment.

In her later years, Lou found peace in the simple pleasures of life relaxing in her favorite chair, sharing laughter and wisdom with her family, reading, and watching her favorite TV shows: Midsomer Murders, The Maury Povich Show, Jerry Springer, Cheaters, and Telemundo.

She was preceded in death by her grandson, Tyrus Hall Jr., and her granddaughter Precious Carter.

Lou leaves to cherish her precious memories: her loving daughter of the home, Shawnta Gilmore-Hall (Tyrus Hall); grandchildren DeAnte Gilmore (Diamond) of Lithonia, GA, Tyrun Hall, TyShawn Hall, both of Decatur, GA; and her beloved granddaughter Mi'Angel Ja'Maya Louise Gilmore of the home. She is also survived by her son Reginald "Dee" Carter grandchildren Tierra Carter, Regina Carter, Reginald Carter Jr., Devin Carter, Sherita Tymes, and Maurice Ashford, all of Columbia, SC; four great-granddaughters, seven great-grandsons, one sister, Janet (Frederick) De'Silva of Columbia, SC; one brother, Bernard (Margaret) Towns of Ware Shoals, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many loving relatives and friends.

Lou's vibrant personality, wisdom, and unconditional love will forever live in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life for Mary Louise Gilmore will be held at 2 P.M. on Saturday, October 18, 2025 in the chapel of Parks Funeral Home with the Reverend Joseph Caldwell officiating.

The family is at the home, 857 Meadow Street.

Parks Funeral Home is assisting the Carter-Gilmore Family.