Edward "Ed" B Elmore

Edward B. Elmore, known affectionately as Ed to his friends and family, passed away on November 23, 2024, in Oak Island, NC. Born on February 8, 1940, in Monroe, NC, Ed's life was marked by his unwavering kindness, generosity, and courage.

Ed's journey began as the beloved son of the late Vera Helms Elmore and Edward M. Elmore. His formative years in Monroe laid the foundation for a life of service and commitment to his country and community. Ed's dedication to the military spanned an impressive 42 years, during which he earned two Bronze Stars for valor while serving in Vietnam. His leadership and valor were further recognized when he became a commissioned officer in 1968.

After his distinguished military career, Ed spent his first few years in the textile industry ending with being the VP of Human Resources for an international corporation. Ed channeled his leadership skills into entrepreneurship, owning and operating a paint store from 1992 to 2002. His work ethic and integrity made the store a success and a staple in the community.

Ed's life was rich with love and family. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Janet Elmore, and their children, Debi Trammel (Dwayne), Steve Elmore (Mini), Tiffany Michel (Mark), Burt Elmore (Amanda), Kathleen Spisak, and Michael Spisak (Brittany). Ed was a proud grandfather to Amber Pompa (Shawn), Nick Trammel (Ashley), Heather Watts (Ryan), Matthew Elmore (Darian), Katlyn Elmore, Ella Grace Elmore, Naaman Elmore, Taylor Elmore, Reese Michel, Lydia Hill, Mykella Spisak, Preston Spisak, and Laila Spisak. His legacy continues through his five great-grandchildren, two nieces, numerous cousins, and his brother, Dennis Elmore (Linda), and many in-laws. Ed was predeceased by his parents and welcomed into heaven by his mother, Vera, and father, Edward.

Ed's life was not only defined by his service and family but also by his friendships and interests. His best friend, Greg Martens, shared many of Ed's adventures and will miss him dearly. Ed was an avid golfer and a member of the Golden Boys of Pebble Creek. His love for travel took him to many corners of the world, including England and Germany during his military service, and to Canada, the Grand Canyon, the New England coast, San Antonio, Mexico, Belize, and Honduras. One of his most memorable trips was a 4600-mile road journey in 2015, which included stops in New Orleans, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Richmond.

In 2018, Ed's service and sacrifices were honored with a Quilt of Valor, a testament to his bravery and the respect he garnered from his community. His life was a tapestry of experiences that not only defined him as a person but also inspired those around him.

Ed's character was the epitome of kindness, generosity, and courage. He approached life with a warm heart and open arms, always ready to help others and give of himself. His presence was a comfort, his laughter a joy, and his guidance a steady force for all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to Edward B. Elmore, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by love, honor, and an unwavering commitment to the values he held dear. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were privileged to know him. Ed's story is one of a true hero, a loving family man, and a cherished friend. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for generations to come.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2024 at 2 PM, at the Cremation Society of SC - Westville Funerals, 6010 White Horse Rd, Greenville, SC 29611.

Donations may be made in Ed’s memory to Upstate Wounded Warriors.