Crystal Gilster

Crystal LeeAnn Payne Gilster, 51, of Lubbock, Texas, a devoted Christian who lived with unwavering faith and joyful expectation of heaven, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 25, 2025, following a medical emergency. Her sudden passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She will be remembered as a faithful wife, a loving mother, a wise counselor, and a cherished friend. Her unconditional love, boundless joy, and enduring faith will live on through the legacy she leaves behind in her children, grandchildren, and community.

Crystal was born on November 10, 1973, to Mary Ann Manley and Lester Payne. She graduated from Monterey High School in Lubbock in 1992 and later earned a Biblical Studies degree from Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. It was during her time with the traveling drama ministry, Covenant Players, that she met the love of her life, Brandon Gilster, in August of 1996.

Brandon and Crystal’s connection was instant and enduring, and they were married that December in Mankato, Minnesota, surrounded by a breathtaking snowy landscape that mirrored the purity and beauty of their love. After a brief time living in Ohio, the couple settled in Lubbock in 1998 to build a life together. Though Crystal was a Texan through and through, she joyfully adopted and supported Brandon’s love for the Minnesota Vikings.

Between 1998 and 2004, Brandon and Crystal welcomed four healthy boys. During the early season of motherhood, Crystal was a devoted mom but also channeled her vibrant spirit into a highly successful Mary Kay business. Through that work, she built lifelong friendships and mentored many women with her signature blend of encouragement, authenticity, and sparkle. Her joy in helping others feel confident inside and out left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path.

In 2010, Crystal earned her master’s degree in counseling from Lubbock Christian University. In her time at LCU, she was involved at Hospice of Lubbock Children’s Grief Camp and held internships at Boys Ranch and as an elementary school counselor in the Frenship School District. Later, she became the Dean of Health and Wellness at South Plains College, where her leadership and dedication impacted countless lives. Over the years, Brandon and Crystal fostered children and eventually adopted tiny Savannah Grace in 2017 to fulfill their dream of adding a little girl to their family. Crystal had so much room in her heart, and this trait defined her life of service, sacrifice, and being a safe place for others.

In 2019, Crystal stepped out in faith to open her own private counseling practice, a calling that allowed her to walk alongside others with empathy, wisdom, and grace. Crystal's legacy is one of deep love, unwavering faith, and a profound commitment to helping others heal and grow. Her presence was comforting, her laughter contagious, and her belief in people steadfast. She was a guiding light to her family and a trusted counselor to many.

Crystal adored being in the mountains, and she loved to travel internationally. She was able to visit Italy, Scotland, and England over the last few years and embraced the incredible opportunities to see God’s majestic work across the globe. She was also a fan of waterfalls, and that empty hole in the Gilster backyard is proof of her intention to get that water feature done someday!

The only thing prettier than Crystal’s smile was her voice. She was a gifted singer. Whether she was leading worship in church, singing at weddings, or belting out praise songs in the car, her voice was full of passion and joy. Her music brought comfort, celebration, and connection, all of which were a reflection of the love and light she carried within.

Crystal was preceded in death by her father, Lester Payne and stepfathers, Max Manley and Ronnie McGowen.

She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Brandon Gilster, and their children: Caleb (Sydnee), Joshua, Jacob (Daniela), Luke, and Savannah. She was Gigi to her beloved Kynlee, Christopher, Emmitt, and Emmie. She is also survived by her best friend and mother, Mary Ann Manley, and her brother, Kevin Payne (Renee), both of Lubbock, Texas; her stepmother, Pam Payne, and half-sisters, Candice Hale (John), and Cherishe Mondics (Jake), all of Midlothian, Texas. Not to be forgotten are Crystal’s loving in-laws, Larry and Sue Gilster of St. Peter, Minnesota; Misty and Chad Friedriches of Mankato, Minnesota; and Jean and Randy Pfiefer of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Additionally, Crystal’s life and love will be missed by many extended family members and friends who adored her. The list of those she impacted is nearly endless.

The viewing will be held on Monday August 4, 2025, from 4-8pm. Crystal’s life will be celebrated in a memorial service on August 5, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Resthaven Funeral Home in the Abbey Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made towards a cause that reflects Crystal’s heart for counseling and care.