Kristie Ann Gilmore

Kristie Ann Gilmore, 59, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply. She was born on October 24, 1966, in Pecos, Texas, to Lora Lucy Graves and Merle Gordon Miller.

Kristie devoted 25 years of her life to teaching 4th grade at Westwind Elementary with Friendship ISD. Teaching was more than a career for her-it was a calling. She retired in 2021, leaving behind generations of students whose lives were brighter because of her patience, encouragement, and belief in them. During her time in the classroom, she was honored as Teacher of the Year twice, a testament to the impact she made on young minds every single day.

On February 25, 1989, Kristie married the love of her life, Nathan Riley Gilmore. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and adventure. Kristie had a special gift for planning unforgettable family trips and delighted in creating memories-most notably surprising Nathan with a cruise to celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary.

Kristie had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, dolphins, and her horse, Cosmo. She also had an even deeper love for people. Whether through teaching, serving others in need, or simply offering a kind word, Kristie lived to lift others up. When she wasn't inspiring her students, caring for others, or planning the next family adventure, she could be found shopping or catching the latest episode of Survivor.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Kristie was a devoted member of Green Lawn Church of Christ since 1989 and spent many years teaching Bible classes, sharing her wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith with all who learned from her.

Kristie is survived by her loving husband, Nathan Gilmore; her son, Erin Chase Gilmore, and his wife Brittani; her daughter, Chelsea Lee Collinsworth, and her husband Jordan; her parents, Merle and Lucy Miller; her brother, Kerry Miller and wife Lynn; and her three cherished grandchildren.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas 79401.A funeral service will follow on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., also at the Venue on Broadway. Burial will take place at Resthaven Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be made to your favorite charity or to an organization that supports animals, in Kristie's name.

Kristie's legacy lives on in the countless children she taught, the lives she lifted, and the hearts she shaped through kindness, faith, and love. To every student, child, family member, and soul who was touched by her compassion-may you carry forward the lessons she shared and the love she gave so freely. Her light continues through you.