Retired Sergeant Major (SGM) Johnnie A. Gore, Jr., affectionately known as “Artis,” peacefully entered eternal rest on July 6, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born on November 12, 1943, in St. Charles, South Carolina, to the late Johnnie Gore, Sr. and Jannie Wilson Gore. A proud graduate of Mt. Pleasant High School, Class of 1962, Johnnie honorably served his country for 26 years in the United States Army, earning and retiring with the distinguished rank of Sergeant Major. He was also a faithful member of Unionville AME Church, where he served on several committees, and a dedicated trustee of VFW Post 10813 in Sumter. Johnnie will be remembered as a man of unwavering integrity, loyalty, and quiet strength. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend whose wisdom, kindness, and steadfast love left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife, Joan Porter Gore; his children, Stacey Gore of Columbia, SC, Ozeda “Chantae” (John) Robinson, Johnnie (Crystal) Gore III, Jerrell Gore, Alexcia Gore Smoot, all of Sumter, SC and Michelle Shannon of Charlotte, NC; his grandchildren, to include Jayceon Smoot of the home; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and many dear friends.. Celebration of Life services will be held 1:00 p. m., Saturday, July 11, 2026 at Unionville AME Church, 1330 Swimming Pen Road, with Rev. Jerome McCray, Pastor. Burial will follow in the Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, 10:00 A. M. Monday, July 13, 2026. The family will receive relatives and friends at the home, 101 Vining Street, Sumter.
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