Wilbert Samuel Elliston

Wilbert Samuel Elliston, affectionately known as “Gillie,” was born on August 23, 1932, in Paradise, Manchester, Jamaica, to Timothy and Naomi Elliston. The second eldest of eight siblings, he lived a long, meaningful life marked by love, dedication, and service.

Gillie was deeply devoted to his family and friends and was widely known for his wisdom, kindness, humor, and unforgettable gift of conversation. He began his career with the Ministry of Labor and later became the owner-operator of Answering Service Ltd. and Acti-Page. In his later years, he served with distinction as a Lay Magistrate in the Lay Magistrates’ Courts under the authority of the Supreme Circuit Courts. He was also a proud member of Lodge Mico, where he served as Right Worshipful Master from 1997 to 1998.

Those who knew Gillie will fondly remember his love for Kaluki and dominoes—especially the joy he took in declaring “6 Love!” with a smile that lit up every gathering.

He was the kind of “uncle” anyone could turn to for advice or assistance. Whether helping someone navigate a process or recommending the right professional, Gillie always seemed to know just the person to call. Whatever you needed, Uncle Gillie would have just the right answer or direction. His home was a welcoming place, with the gate always open for a friendly chat on the veranda.

After retirement Gillie took joy in sharing in his children's and grandchildren's many accomplishments.

Gillie cherished life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed his naps, took pride in tending his garden, and delighted in grafting his grapefruit tree to produce a variety of oranges. He also loved to travel and often shared stories of his journeys, especially his memorable trips to Switzerland and South Africa.

He is warmly remembered by his wife, Claudette; his daughter, Karen, and son-in-law, Courtney and his grandson Zachary; his son, Roger; and his granddaughter, Courtney Simone as well as his great-grandson Amir. He is also survived by his siblings Kathy (and her husband Ishmael), Eda, Wesley, and Audrey. Gillie is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gillie’s legacy of love, resilience, and faith will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service, 1621 Emancipation Hwy, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401, on April 25, 2026, at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends for 10:00-11:00am prior to the service.