Sharon (Rist) Gilmore

Funeral services for Sharon Marie (Rist) Gilmore, 78, of Oologah, OK, were held Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at Johnson Funeral Chapel in Sperry, OK. Reverend Marvin Rist officiated, and burial was in Rest Haven Cemetery in Sperry, OK. Casket bearers were Ron Chaney, Bobby Petersen, Hank White, Skylar White, Brian Barnett, and Jordan Gilmore-Barnett.

Sharon was born June 6, 1945, in Tulsa, OK, to Kenneth LeRoy Rist and Alice Marie (Ashlock) Rist. She passed away June 21, 2023, in Oologah, OK.

In May 1964, Sharon met Leslie T. Gilmore, whom she would come to know as the love of her life. She met him at a professional wrestling match held at the Tulsa Convention Center. The chemistry between them ignited a deep connection, and they were married later that fall on October 4, 1964, in Miami, OK. Throughout their lives together, Sharon and Leslie were blessed with the joy of raising Carla and Lisa. Sharon spent a significant portion of her professional career working for Zebco, where she was an assembler in Tulsa. Her dedication to the company spanned over two decades, from 1978 until her retirement. Beyond her professional life, Sharon shared her love of the great outdoors with her family. Camping and fishing became cherished pastimes that brought them closer together. Sharon also shared her love of Square and Western Dancing, and rodeos were another activity that captivated her spirit. One aspect of Sharon's personality that stood out was her unwavering affection for any animal and she loved to spoil each and every one that she came across. Her nurturing nature knew no bounds. 

Sharon was known for her kind and compassionate nature, always ready to lend an empathetic ear or a helping hand to those in need. Even if it wasn’t asked for, she would offer her advice, reflecting her caring disposition and genuine concern for others. Above all, Sharon treasured the moments she spent with her grandchildren, and especially her great grandchildren. They all held a special place in her heart. She cherished these family connections and found profound happiness in witnessing their growth and happiness. 

She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Chaney and husband, Ron of Claremore, and Carla Cox and fiancé, Bobby Petersen of Oologah; grandchildren, Leslie Barnett and husband, Brian, of Talala, Hailey Cox of Owasso, and Hank White and fiancée, Tammy of Claremore; great-grandchildren, Makala, Jordan, Easton, and Gunner of Talala, and Skylar, Lexi, Oakley, and Harley of Claremore; brother, Marvin Rist and wife, Carol of CO; numerous nieces and nephews she loved dearly; and many other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leslie Gilmore; daughters, Allie Gilmore and Alice Gilmore; parents, Kenneth and Alice Rist; brothers, David Rist, Kenneth “Frankie” Rist and Frances Rist; and sister, Nancy

Arrangements and services were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, Sperry.

Online condolences to the family can be made at johnsonsperry.com.