Jess L. Gilbert

Jess L. Gilbert went home to be with his Lord on Wednesday, May 2, 2007 at the age of 87. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian "Pinky" Gilbert. He is survived by daughters, Melinda Gilbert and Conner Gilbert Loomis, son-in-law, Larry F. Loomis, and twin granddaughters, Jessica and Korinne Loomis; sisters-in-law, Quida Gilbert and Paula Green, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jess loved the business world and was very active as owner of Alamo Clay Products Company. Locally, he supplied some of the clay products for many schools, offices, and commercial buildings including UTSA, Trinity University, McNay Art Institute and San Fernando Cathedral. During his business career, he was actively involved in the Brick Institute of Texas, serving in the capacity of board director and president, and was a member of the Structural Clay Products Institute, a national organization of clay products manufacturers. In addition, his commercial interests included real estate, ranching, office buildings, and franchise operations.

Active in the Christian faith, he began his journey as a member of Alamo Heights Presbyterian Church where he enjoyed teaching Sunday school to both teens and couples, served as deacon and chairman of the board of deacons and was on the elder board for several years. He also had a heart for Laity Lodge and was involved in many of its activities. In his later years, he attended Wayside Chapel and devoted considerable time volunteering with religions charitable organizations.

He served in the Air Force during WWII and later in the Air Force Reserves. He loved most sports, was an avid golfer, and enjoyed all kinds of hunting experiences. To all who knew and loved him, Jess Gilbert was a man with a great heart a generous spirit, a keen sense of humor, and a deeply-felt love for his fellowman.