Frederick Gilmer Obituary

Frederick Gilmer, Jr., of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on February 10, 1936, in Anderson, South Carolina, Fred was the son of Frederick Gilmer and Josephine Gilmer. Fred's family roots run deep in Anderson, where his youth was filled with wonderful times alongside his family and cousins-whom he regarded as brothers-creating memories that he cherished throughout his life. He graduated from Anderson Boys High School in 1954 and earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia in 1958, where he was a member of Kappa Alpha fraternity. Upon graduation, Fred was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army (Artillery) and served on active duty and in the Army Reserves until 1964, when he was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain. In 1970 he got an additional degree from LSU Graduate School of Banking of the South in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Fred spent his adult life in Greenville, where he built a successful and respected career with over 50 years of experience in the financial services industry. He retired as senior vice president of Southern First Bank. Fred was involved with the organization of Southern Bank and Trust Company, as well as Greenville First Bank, and held executive positions with two other banks in the Greenville area. He was a graduate of Leadership Greenville and has served numerous organizations, including the Greenville Rotary Club, the YMCA, the United Way, and lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church, serving as deacon and elder for many years. He also is a past board member of Family Children Service, Goodwill Industries, Downtown Area Council, Greenville Little Theater, Greenville Cancer Society, South Carolina Arthritis Foundation, Freedom Weekend Aloft, and the Greenville Chamber of Commerce. Outside of work, Fred was a devoted Georgia Bulldog fan, a lifelong fitness enthusiast, and an avid adventurer. He completed more than 100 road races and a marathon, and found joy in competitive water skiing, scuba diving, sailing, and the occasional skydiving thrill. He also shared a deep love for travel, exploring the world alongside Barry, sharing experiences they treasured. Fred was predeceased by the first love of his life, Mary Ann Gilmer, in 1985. He is survived by the second love of his life, Barry Gilmer; sister, JoAnn Cole (Charles) ; two sons, Fred and Dave (Kristine); and five step-sons, Tripp Johnstone (Sarah), Ken Johnstone, Scott Johnstone (Michelle), David Johnstone (MaryBeth), and Reid Johnstone (Leigh). He was a proud grandfather to Logan Alderman (Payne), Keyes Andrews (Glenn), Elliott Gilmer (Emma), Marshall Gilmer (Sully), and Sam Gilmer; and a great-granddaughter, Reese Alderman. Through his five step-sons, he was also blessed with ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Shelton Sanford and Rev. Don Feuerbach officiating. A private graveside service for the family will follow. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to First Presbyterian Church, 200 West Washington Street, Greenville, SC 29601. Fred will be remembered for his integrity, boundless energy, sense of adventure, and deep devotion to family, community, faith, and wellness.