Carolyn Roberta Jesse Gilmer

Carolyn Roberta Jesse Gilmer, 90, of Topeka, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 15, 2024 at the Kelly House in Topeka. She had celebrated her 90th Birthday on July 14th. She was born the oldest twin on July 14, 1934 in Alhambra, California, the daughter of Samuel and Emma (Werner) Jesse.

Carolyn and her family moved to Kansas, settling in Topeka. She played piano and accordion. She also taught accordion which allowed her to buy her first car. She attended Highland Park High School graduating in 1953. She also met the love of her life, Charles Gilmer.

Carolyn married Charles on February 23, 1957 in Topeka. He preceded her in death on June 25, 1983. They welcomed their daughter, Tamara on July 24, 1963. When not caring for her family, she worked as a Proof Operator at Highland Park Bank which later became UMB. She retired in 1994. She was a long-time member of California Acres Church of Christ. She enjoyed playing the piano and spending time with her family and friends.

Besides her husband Charles, others preceding her in death were her twin-brother, Carl and his wife, Judi Jesse; her brother, Donald and his wife, Patricia Jesse.

Survivors include children, Tamara (David) Edington of Topeka, one grandson, Charles Edington and her sister-in-law’s, Betty Gilmer and Nelda and her husband, Albert Haag.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 at the California Acres Church of Christ where the family will receive friends one hour prior to service time. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the California Acres Church of Christ, 2200 SE 21st St., Topeka, Kansas 66607.

Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. is assisting the family with service arrangements.

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