Norma Jeanette Gilbert, affectionately known to those around her as Meow, departed from her earthly body on September 28. Born in Paris, Illinois on August 8, 1931, to Glenn and Mary Martin, Norma lived a life full of joy and virtue, meekness and peace.
This could be seen in her constant giggling, her diligence in managing her household, her lack of selfish endeavors and the unadulterated giving of her time. She delighted in travel and exploration, touring the United States as well as abroad. She loved playing cards and games with her peers, family and grandchildren, especially if she was winning. She delighted in babies, especially their toes, and always wanted to hold them. She loved all of her family, no matter their faults or failures. And, she was secretly and affectionately everyone’s “favorite.”
She was an avid member of Summer Grove Baptist Church, attending “religiously” on Sundays as well as any other day there was activity at the church and was known as a lover of the choir music.
Preceding her in death were her husband of 53 years, Harold Gilbert; her parents; and her brother Ray Martin, as well as many loving brothers and sisters in law who were so dear to her.
Today she leaves behind two children, Kristie Waldon, and husband Charles; and Rick Gilbert and wife Andie; 7 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; along with a broken-hearted multitude of extended family and friends. As we wait behind and she departs this world and her earthly body, the rest of us are left sitting, feeling the impact of losing the one woman we thought might actually live forever. However, we are alsoleft hopeful that she is at peace, sitting amongst the heavenly choir and laughing (or giggling) at things to come.
Her home going service will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 3, 2018, at Hill Crest Memorial Funeral Home, officiated by Dr. Murry Hodge. Entombment will follow at Hill Crest Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive guests on Tuesday evening, October 2, 2018, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
(Proverbs 31:25-27)
