Fm Kimsey

FM Kimsey, 76, of Bessemer City, NC, passed away December 26, 2024, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, NC.

He was born in Gaston County, NC on March 25, 1948, to the late Everett and Hazel Kimsey.

FM Kimsey fiercely loved his family and dedicated his life to making sure they were taken care of. A graduate of Frank L. Ashley High School and Gaston Technical Institute, FM worked to build a solid foundation for the future. He served honorably in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. While in service, he was stationed in Thailand, where he worked on fighter jets. Following his tour of service, FM completed 38 years as an employee of Western Auto/Advance Auto in the company's warehouse.

Outside of working, he spent time with his family. From coaching Little League to visits to the library, FM was actively involved in his boys' lives. As a lifelong Tarheel, Dodgers, and Redskins fan, he made sure to foster a love of sports in his boys and encouraged them in any sport they were passionate about. He was their biggest fan and supported them in all their accomplishments, big and small. The love he had for his boys was a reflection of the love he had for his wife of 49 years; his teammate through it all. That love was only magnified for his granddaughter, Kelly.

Among friends and family, FM was viewed as a good man. He was described as generous, a man of integrity, hardworking, and kind hearted. His faith was modeled through his actions. He was a lifetime member of Beech Avenue Baptist Church in Gastonia.

FM was and will always be known as a family man, sports fan, and man of God.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ann Rhinehardt Kimsey; children, Chad Derek Kimsey and Matthew Colt Kimsey; granddaughter, Kelly Kimsey; sisters, Kila Sullivan and husband Brian, Karen Faye Kimsey, and Pamela Renee Kimsey Smith and husband Walter; several nieces and nephews; special aunts, Kathy Schronce and Betty Gunter Smith; his sister-in-law, Loretta Reddick; and his cat, Lucy.

A service to celebrate FM's life will be held Monday, December 30, 2024, 2:00 pm, at Beech Avenue Baptist Church, 1206 Ashton Avenue, Gastonia, NC 28052. Pastor Richard Myers and Pastor James Johnson will officiate. The family will receive friends from 12:30 - 2:00 pm at the church.

Interment will follow the service at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City, NC.

Online condolences can be made at www.greenefuneral.com.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia, NC 28052.