Eugene O. Gilbert

In The Life of A Great Man Mr. Eugene Oakley Gilbert Sr. was born in Giles County, TN, to the late Elder Elizabeth Gilbert-Nelson and Oakley Eugene Gilbert on December 31, 1928. "Gene," as he was affectionately known as later relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana. He received a Training Certificate in Blueprint Reading-Building Trades and landed employment with Chrysler. He had many jobs and trades. "Gene" later retired from Indianapolis Public Schools after 25 years of service. Eugene dedicated his life to Christ at an early age and attended Grace Tabernacle Church of Deliverance since 1986, where his loving wife of 27 years, Benita, was the pastor. Eugene enjoyed fishing, playing cards, visiting family in Tennessee, and transporting family and friends. He loved his family and was a friend to all, meeting no strangers. He was a loving father, uncle, grandfather, cousin, and friend who will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. On November 12, 2013, Mr. Eugene Oakley Gilbert Sr. departed his earthly home to enter his heavenly home to rest at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Pastor John D. Gilbert, William Brown Sr., and Jerry Upshaw-Phelps; sister, Annie Mae Gilbert-Lee and son, Paul Elliott Jr. Eugene leaves behind to cherish his precious memory: his loving wife, Pastor Benita Gilbert; sons, Eugene O. Jr., David, Nathanial Elliot, Cornelious Elliot and Norris; daughters, Beverly Harney (Guy), Mary Johnson, Patricia Gilbert, Benita Elliot, Clarisa Elliott-Turner (Anthony) and Eugena Gilbert-Madison (Shedrick); and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family and friends.