Mrs. Sharon C. Kilgore

Mrs. Sharon Cortez Kilgore, 73, of Peoria, IL, passed away peacefully at 2:11 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Grand View Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, surrounded by her loving family. Sharon was born on October 22, 1951, in Peoria, IL, to Charles and Erma (Moore) Davis. She married the love of her life, Allen Kilgore, on September 2, 1972, in Peoria. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and faith, raising two sons, Aaron and Evan. A 1970 graduate of Richwoods High School, Sharon attended Illinois Central College, earning her certificate as an operating room technician. Inspired by her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse, she returned to Illinois Central College School of Nursing to earn her Licensed Practical Nurse degree and later her Registered Nurse degree in 1990. Sharon’s career took her to Memorial Medical Center in Springfield, IL, where she served as a member of the open-heart surgery team for 20 years - before retiring in 2011. Sharon was a devoted member of Bethel United Methodist Church for over 50 years. She served faithfully as a youth leader, choir member, communion steward, president of the United Methodist Women Ministry, and a committed participant in Bethel’s Outreach Ministries. Her service reflected her deep love for God and for others. Family was Sharon’s greatest joy. She was a loving wife and proud mother, always present to guide and encourage her sons. Known for her beautiful and infectious smile, Sharon had a gift for making people feel welcome - she truly never met a stranger. She especially loved the Christmas season, turning it into a full-day celebration complete with carols, a beautifully decorated tree, and freshly baked cookies. Sharon leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband of 53 years, Allen Kilgore of Peoria, IL; two sons, Aaron (Amanda) Kilgore of Peoria, IL, and Evan (Christina) Kilgore of Round Lake, IL; two sisters, Michele Davis and Lisa Davis, both of Peoria, IL; two grandchildren, Alex Kilgore and Joshua Kilgore; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who loved her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Robert Davis. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Bethel United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. Pastor Tyson Parks III will officiate. Sharon will be laid to rest at Parkview Cemetery. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at SimonsMortuary.com.

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Mrs. Sharon C. Kilgore

October 22, 1951 - August 5, 2025