Mrs. Leona Gilmore King, daughter of the late John Gilmore, Sr. and Laura Cross Gilmore, was born on July 13, 1930, in Hinds County, Mississippi. She accepted Christ at an early age and joined St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church where she remained a faithful member until her passing.

She was united in Holy Matrimony to Willie King, Sr. of Edwards, MS who preceded her in death. To this union 11 children were born.

Mrs. King leaves to cherish her memories: one brother, John M. Gilmore of Edwards, MS; nine loving children: five daughters, Charlie Mae Tatum (Roy) of Jackson, MS, Clara Flemming of Jackson, MS, Odessa Harris of Edwards, MS, Ethel King-Bates of Edwards, MS, Annette Devine of Jackson, MS; four sons, Willie Lee King, Jr. (Regena) of Bolton MS, Clifton Lee King of Edwards, MS, John Walter King of Edwards, MS, Gregory King (Yvette) of Jackson, MS; five bonus children, Brenda Wilson of Edwards, MS, Alean German-Foster of Edwards, MS, Tyrone Kidd (Lashonda) of Jackson, MS, Undare Kidd (Alisa) of Bolton, MS and Willie Bingham (Terri Ann) of Edwards, MS.

She had 34 grandchildren, as well as a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Truelove Mitchell and Elenora Walton; four brothers, Berry Gilmore, Columbus Gilmore, James Arthur Gilmore and John Henry Gilmore; two daughters, Laura Butler Green and Marie King Climmons; two son-in-laws, L.S. Climmons and Robert Flemming; and three grandchildren, Brian King, Cornelius Green, and Robert Harris.