Gilbert C. “Gil” Elmore, 78, died Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2008.
He was born Nov. 10, 1929, in Houston, the son of W.E. “Dick” Elmore and Frances Shacklette Elmore.
He was a pioneer in the Branson and Missouri tourism industry as public relations director for the Shepherd of the Hills for more than 20 years and for his service to the Division of Missouri Tourism and various bus and travel associations. He was inducted into the Missouri Travel and Tourism Hall Of Fame in 1999.
He joined the cast of Old Mill Theater in 1962, where for 20-plus years he played many roles. He was best known for his more than 2,000 performances as Jim Lane.
Survivors include his wife, Mackey, of the home; a daughter, Fran Walz of Powersite; two brothers, Tom Elmore of Anchorage, Alaska, and Jerry Elmore of Philadelphia, Mo.; a sister, Joy Young, of Spokane, Mo.; two grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Gerald Elmore.
Memorial services were Oct. 6 at Whelchel’s Funeral Chapel in Forsyth. Burial was in Historic Evergreen Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Western Taney County Fire District, White River Valley Historical Society, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Make-A-Wish Foundation.