Laura Rose Williams Gilmer

Posted on May 15, 2026

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Laura Rose Williams Gilmer, who gracefully departed from this world on May 12, 2026, at the age of 44.

Laura passed away surrounded by her devoted family and beloved friends after a valiant battle, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth and unwavering strength.

Born on Aug. 21, 1981, in Perry, Laura grew up in a family filled with love and kindness, nurtured by her parents, Tom and Sharon Williams.

She was predeceased by her cherished maternal grandparents, Coy Lee and Corriss Williams, and her Tom Fletcher Williams.

Her sisters-in-law, Tasha Dione Driver and Tricia Kilene Olvera, also preceded her in passing, and she is now reunited with them in eternal peace.

Laura is survived by her loving husband of 25 years, Jonathan Galan Gilmer, who stood by her side with unyielding devotion.

Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, and together they raised three wonderful sons: Jonathan Galan Gilmer Jr. (Mckinsey), Zachary Nathan Gilmer and Preston Lane Gilmer (Makaylla Taylor).

Laura’s siblings, Johnny Ray Ratliff (Wendy) and Tom Edward Williams Jr., will forever cherish her memory.

She is also survived by her Granny, Lorene Inman “Granny Rene” Williams; her mother-in-law, Mona Parker; brothers-in-law, Shawn Parker (Kera Ellison) and Isiah Gilmer; sister-in-law, Marjorie Gilmer; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, who were all touched by her vibrant spirit.

Laura’s circle of love extended beyond her immediate family to include her cherished “Golden Girls,” April Porter and Lisa Hines, and many close friends in her community.

Her warmth and compassion knew no bounds, and her presence was a source of comfort and joy to all who knew her.

A proud alumna of Madison County High School, Class of 2000, Laura embarked on a diverse career journey.

She worked at Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Ga., at K-Mart and Martin Electronics during her early years.

Ultimately, she found her true calling working alongside her husband and sons at their family-owned business, Gilmer Industrial, where she poured her heart into every endeavor.

Laura’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life. Having attended Antioch Revival Center during her upbringing, she found a spiritual home at Westside Baptist Church, where she was baptized.

Her commitment to community was evident in her active membership at the Elks Lodge, where she fostered friendships and spread kindness.

A woman of many passions, Laura’s main passion was being a mother to her boys adored her Yorkies, Harley and Marley, and her cows, especially her baby, Maybelle.

She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, relishing days spent on the water, swimming, fishing and boating with her family.

Hunting trips and gatherings with friends were cherished moments of laughter and camaraderie. Laura’s big heart and boundless love for others will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her smile was infectious, lighting up every room she entered.

The Gilmer family extends their heartfelt gratitude to their community for the outpouring of love and support shown during this difficult time.

Special thanks are given to Big Bend Technical College for arranging a memorable graduation ceremony for her sons at home, and to WCTV of Tallahassee for sharing Laura’s inspiring story.

The family is also deeply appreciative of the compassionate care provided by hospice staff and the unwavering support of friends and family.

As we celebrate Laura’s life, we remember her for her courage, her kindness and her capacity to love without limits.

Her memory will forever be a guiding light in the hearts of all those she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, wrapped in the love she so generously shared with the world.

Funeral service will be held Monday, May 18, at 11 a.m., at Joe P. Burns Funeral Home Perry Chapel with Brother Cricket Watson and Brother Jeremy Gray officiating. Interment will follow to New Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are under the care of Burns Funeral Home of Perry.