

Tony Gilbert, affectionately known to his loved ones as “Gilbert”, “Ton”, “Tonton Tony”, “Papi”, “Popé”, and “Bipa”, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, in Sunrise, Florida. Born on March 14, 1944, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tony's journey through life was marked by his generous spirit, loving heart, and intelligent mind. Tony is preceded in death by his parents Max and Marie Luce Gilbert and his sisters Mireille Jules and Babette Brutus.
Tony's life was one of dedication and love, beginning with his cherished family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Marie Rose Elizabeth Gilbert, and their loving sons and their wives, Tommy & Vicky Gilbert and Rony & Jai Gilbert. His legacy continues through his grandsons, Jonathan, Christian, Giovani, Mateo, and Maddox Gilbert, who will carry forward the values he instilled in them. Tony's sisters, Marlene Manoyrine whom he affectionately named "Tite Soeur”, and Jocelyne Eustache affectionately named "Joujou" will forever remember his unwavering love, support and humor. His nephews including Mony Manoyrine and Family, Harold Jules and Family, Roody Alex Eustache and Family and favorite nieces (nièces préférées) Sindy Eustache and Family, Margy Manoyrine and Family, Martine Murray and Family, and Marsha Manoyrine Toussaint and Family, and his God children whom he loved so dearly Henry Robert Hyacinthe, Alexandra Rousseau, Sergio Balmir and so many more, will miss his generous nature and the joy he brought to their lives. Tony's life was also shared with the Families St. Louis, Amedee, Brisson, Brutus, Theard, Hyacinthe, Remarais, Bouchette and Thomas.
Tony's educational pursuits in the field of Telecommunication set the stage for a successful career. His professional journey included significant contributions to RCA, New York Telephone Company and Telecommunications D’Haiti. As an entrepreneur, he opened a copier repair and maintenance company called Copycom in Haiti and ventured into real estate and home inspection services in the US.
Never one to shy away from a challenge, he embraced construction with determination and heart. He personally rebuilt his first home in New York, pouring his time, energy, and craftsmanship into every detail. By his side through the journey were the loyal friendships of Fito Martelly, Teddy Rouzeau, the late Joel Vieux and the late Jean Claude (Jacko) Detouche. Later, he carried that same spirit back to Haiti, where he once again led the design and construction of his home, leaving behind not just walls and a roof, but a lasting testament to his vision, resilience, and love for creating with his own hands.
He was known for his innovative thinking and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His special aptitude for languages allowed him to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding. Beyond his professional achievements, Tony was a man of many interests. His love for language was just one aspect of his multifaceted personality. He also spent some time teaching English at Union School in Haiti, where he enjoyed sharing his love of language with students. He was a beacon of wisdom and warmth, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a kind word. Those who knew him would describe Tony as not just generous, loving, and intelligent, but as someone who truly made a difference in the lives of others.
As we reflect on Tony's life, we are reminded of the words of the great poet Maya Angelou, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Tony made everyone around him feel valued and appreciated, and his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. Tony's life was a testament to the power of kindness, and the impact one individual can have on the world around them. As we say goodbye for now to “Gilbert”, “Ton”, “Tonton Tony”, “Papi”, “Popé”, and “Bipa”, we celebrate the remarkable life he led and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His light will continue to shine in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his extraordinary spirit.
Special Thank You’s
The family is sincerely grateful for many expressions of sympathy and condolences during this time of loss. For those who have traveled great distances and those who reached out to us with your many thoughts, prayers, love and support, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are blessed to have all of you in our lives.
Furthermore, we extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated group of healthcare professionals who cared for Tony with compassion, respect, and unwavering attention over the past 12 years. To all his Physicians: Dr. Alix Salvant, Dr. Sandra Brown, P.A., Dr. Fritz Gaetan Heyliger, and the exceptional team at Chen Medical for their consistent support and medical expertise.
A special thank you to his Care team: Mimose Jean Baptiste, Sophia St. Fleur, Jean Richard Derisma, Marjorie Renee, Quase-Ann Green Leaf, Lastenia Cadet, Solange Lubin, Marie Lynn Ulysse, and Judith from Comfort Care & Vitas Agency for their devoted care.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to super-school-inc. on behalf of Mateo by New York Autism Awareness-5k.
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