Saundra Gilmore

MONTEREY-Saundra Gilmore, a beloved member of the Monterey community, passed away peacefully at her residence on January 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 27, 1944, in Monterey, TN, Saundra was a vibrant and graceful lady who brought warmth and light to everyone she met.

Her career was marked by dedication and accomplishment, serving as an Executive Administration Secretary for the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency both in Nashville and Crossville. Beyond her career, she touched the lives of many as the director at the Monterey Senior Citizens Center, where her optimism and generosity shone through in every interaction. Saundra was known for her encouraging spirit and her ability to make everyone feel valued, often showering friends and family with compliments that uplifted their spirits.

Family was the heart of Saundra's world, and she took immense pride in her role as a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She is survived by her two daughters, Angela and her husband Michael Mountain, and Krista and her husband DeWayne VanWinkle. Her legacy continues with her six grandchildren: Stephen and his wife Deborah McKethan, Morgan and her husband Jonathan Boren, Christopher Mountain, Katlyn Mountain, Blake and his wife Lindsey VanWinkle, and Alexa and her husband Drew Swallows. Additionally, her joy expanded with seven great-grandchildren: Brayden McKethan, Aiden and Aya Boren, Hadley and Asher VanWinkle, and Kreed Andrew and Karter Ridge Swallows, who brought her boundless happiness.

Saundra cherished the joy of travel and always made it a point to spend quality time having fun with her numerous friends. Her love for singing led her to be an active member of the church choir at Monterey Methodist Church, where her melodious voice lifted the hearts of many. She also enjoyed being a member of the Monterey Garden Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Percy and Byrnie Ruth Reed Gilmore, and her son, Richard "Richie" Buttram.

Services to honor her life held Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Horner Funeral Home, with her family receiving friends from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with interment to follow in Whittaker Cemetery. Rev. Denna Hornby will officiate.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.