Gilmer, John, 1925-2014

John Samuel Gilmer was born March 14, 1925 in Greensboro, N.C. He was the only child of John H. and Anna Smith Gilmer. Gilmer attended Dudley High School in Greensboro and graduated early to enlist in the United States Navy during World War II.

Gilmer was asssigned to the United States Navy B-1 Band, the first all-African American Navy Band. Gilmer played clarinet in the band and was known by his nickname "Gus," to his fellow bandmates. Following the war, he attended North Carolina A&T University. He majored in music.Some time later, Gilmer joined the United States Army and served during the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He was a member of the 555 Paratroopers Unit. After 21 years of service, Gilmer retired from the Army. Post-retirement, Gilmer worked for the United States Postal Service and was the restaurant manager at the Trailway Bus Line.

Gilmer was an involved member of St. Benedict the Moor Church in Columbus, Ga., and he sang in the choir, was a member of the Men's Club, and was on the Finance Team. Gilmer was also a Modern Freemason.

Gilmer was married to Uretha Williams Gilmer and had four daughters, Brenda, Jeanetta, Venatia, and LaFini. He died January 1, 2014 and is buried at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery in Alabama.