James "Jimmy" Axley Gilmer Jr.

James “Jimmy” Axley Gilmer, Jr., 83, of Amarillo, TX, passed away on September 8th, 2024.

A follower of Jesus, Jimmy was an active member of Brook Hollow Church for over 40 years before retiring in Amarillo. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, son, and friend.

Born in Chicago, Illinois , to James (Jim) Axley Gilmer, Sr. and Abby Elizabeth Ice, on September 15, 1940. Jimmy graduated from Amarillo High School in 1958. He started his recording career in Clovis, NM as a young man. He later joined “The Fireballs”, a popular instrumental group. Together they had many “hits”, including “Sugar Shack”, which was the record of the year in 1963. After his recording career, he moved to Nashville, TN where he enjoyed a distinguished career as a music publisher and personal manager. 

Jimmy enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and spending time with friends.

Jimmy is preceded in death by Donna Sutton, his parents, and his loving wife Carolyn. Jimmy is survived by his sister Jane Reichert, his son Drew Gilmer, Drew’s mother, Leigh Crump, step-daughter Carla Baker, step-son Bob Baker (Meredith), grandsons Daniel, Cody, and Cole, and granddaughter Dana.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 21st at 12:30 at Harpeth Hills Memorial Gardens.