Norma Jean Gilbert

Norma devoted her life to serving the lord in many ways, but music seemed to be where she was most able to give her all to him, and to lead others to him through song.

Norma received her basic education in Milan TN. (GCTS / Polk Clark School) where she was recognized for her many talents both academically and musically. She was the valedictorian of her high school class and was awarded full scholarships to Lane College and to Fisk University because of her academic abilities. She did not, however, attend the aforementioned institutions but did continuously further her education. Norma attended Yuba College, Marysville, CA, Northern Virginia Community College, Louden County, VA, Victor Valley College, Victorville CA, Cal State University, San Bernardino CA, And Trinity Theological Seminary, Newburg IN, with emphasis on biblical counseling. She received degrees in business administration and management and social sciences. As a result of her academic adroitness, she is listed in Academia’s Who In America (National Dean’s List). And she was inducted in the Phi Theta Kappa Society, International Scholastic Order.

Norma accomplished these fetes while simultaneously employed and traveling with her late husband, SMSgt David W. Gilbert, who was an active member of the U.S. Air Force for twenty-eight plus years. Because he was a member of the USAF at the time of his death, she became a member of the "GOLD STAR WIVES OF AMERICA". This is an honor for those wives whose husbands recedes them in death while yet with the military.

While attending school and traveling she was also raising a son, David A. Gilbert, (D' Aaron as she called him). Raising him made her life complete. She fervently aspired to achieve many personal goals, but her main goal was to teach D' Aaron while giving him love and encouragement about the love of Christ and the benefits there of as he grew into adult hood. Norma was dedicated to David’s firstborn child, Nastasia (CA), who lived very near her in California for most of her formative years. She was dedicated to helping her parents raise Nastasia with the same values and she did D' Aaron.

Although she did not live near her other grandchildren, she held them dear to her heart; Aaron (TX), Katrina (TX), Sahaira (TX). She held a special place in her heart for her godsons Andrew Estrada (CA), and Timothy Powell (VA).

Norma had given her life to Christ at an early age in Milan, TN. At Phillips Chapel CME Church. Throughout her extensive journeys, Mrs. Gilbert always found her way to the church. Through the beautiful gift of music, bestowed upon her by God, she has touched many lives in numerous places. She served as a minister of music for 35 plus years, and was a voice teacher, choral lyricist and arranger, music director, recording artist, accomplished pianist, organist and guitarist.

Norma is preceded in death by her parents, Mr. Earlie Elam and Mrs. Jessie L. Robinson Elam. Sisters; Mrs. Eva Lucille Brazzle, Mrs. Emma Frances Cherry, Mrs. Florine Elam, Mrs. Maggie Witt, Mrs. Elise Pirtle, and Mrs. Shirley Wright. Brothers; Aubrey Elam, Clifford Elam and John Earl Elam. John and Theresa grew up together from toddlers and enjoyed learning together. They shared experiences through their formative years together. They continued this relationship through adulthood.

In addition, to the previously mentioned son and grandchildren, she leaves to mourn her passing; several nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and one special niece, Theresa Witt of Louisville KY. She considered Theresa more a younger sister than a niece.