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Lori will be remembered as a loving, giving, and strong woman whose warm and outgoing spirit touched the lives of so many.

Loria Jean Gilstrap, lovingly known as Lori, passed away on September 12, 2026, in Pickens at the age of 81. Born on August 8, 1945, in Greenville, South Carolina, Lori will be remembered as a loving, giving, and strong woman whose warm and outgoing spirit touched the lives of so many. After battling dementia for years, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and deep affection for the people and animals she held close.

Lori worked for 37 years as a battery filler in the cotton mill, a role that reflected her dedication and perseverance. She eventually had to leave her work following two hip surgeries, but the strength that marked her life was evident long before then. As a girl, after suffering a severe burn at the age of 11 and nearly losing her leg, she went on to win two relay races and earned blue ribbons—an accomplishment that spoke to her determination and courage.

She found joy in the simple and beautiful things of life. Lori loved to crochet and enjoyed making ceramics. She delighted in showering babies with gifts and celebrating those around her. She loved babies dearly, and though she had no children of her own, she cared for everyone else’s children as if they were hers. Her giving heart was a blessing to her family, and her helpfulness and generosity were felt in countless everyday acts of love.

Among her treasured memories were the trips she and her late husband took to the mountains, times filled with companionship and happiness. Together they shared a wholehearted love for their six cats. Family was always close to Lori’s heart. When her sister Rebecca had the first baby in the family while Lori was 20, Lori lovingly walked her nephew and made pictures of him, beginning what would become a lifelong pattern of devotion to the children in her family. She loved everyone she met, and her bright, caring nature made people feel welcomed and valued.

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She found joy in the simple and beautiful things of life.

Lori is survived by her sister, Rebecca Geddings, with whom she shared a lasting family bond and many cherished memories.

She was preceded in death by her father, Troy Phillips; her mother, Nell Coker; her twin sister, Gloria Green; and her brothers, Stanley Phillips and Wayne Phillips.

A graveside service will be held on September 22, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Graceland Mortuary, 4814 White Horse Rd, Greenville, South Carolina 29611.

Lori’s life was marked by generosity, endurance, and love. She celebrated others freely, gave of herself often, and cared deeply for her family. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

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Her giving heart was a blessing to her family, and her helpfulness and generosity were felt in countless everyday acts of love.

The family would like to deeply thank the staff at Mana Post Acute in Pickens, SC for their unwavering support and all their love and care.  The family cannot express this enough.  Thank you all, you've made a difference in our lives. 

In lieu of flowers for the funeral service, the family kindly requests floral arrangements that may be placed at the graveside. It is their wish for the grave to be adorned with flowers in the days and weeks following the service as a continued expression of love and remembrance.