Mary Whitfield Hall Gilmer died peacefully in her home after a lengthy illness Dec. 27, 2014.

Born Nov. 15, 1920, Mary lived in Eutaw until she graduated from the University of Alabama. While teaching in the Selma City Schools, she and Joseph Melville Gilmer met in a Dale Carnegie class. They married in 1950 and continued to love Selma as their home.

Mary is survived by her son Mel Gilmer, Jr. and his wife, Catherine; her granddaughters, Elizabeth and Cate (Brandon); and grandson, Jay.

She was predeceased by her husband, Mel Gilmer Sr.; her parents, Louise and David McGiffert Hall; her brother, David Hall; and his wife, Lida.

A graveside service in New Live Oak Cemetery will be Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 11 a.m.

The family is thankful for the excellent care given by Fannie Davis, Carolyn Steele, Cheryl Craig, and a staff of compassionate caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Presbyterian Home for Children, P.O. Drawer 577, Talladega, AL 35161, or Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Selma.