We say goodbye to a loving father and grandfather, a caring husband and a dear friend to many across the globe. A man of unyielding faith, he left our earthly world for the warm and eternal embrace of our Heavenly Father, surrounded by his family: Bahgah Eskalis, Irene Eskalis, Al Eskalis, Lourdes Eskalis, and the pride of his life, his grandchildren Ryan Eskalis, Rebecca Eskalis, Ashley Eskalis and Matthew Mina. In his passing he found peace, comfort, and everlasting joy after enduring weeks of pain and suffering in the hospital.
Today and forevermore, his presence and legacy inspire love and laughter.
Those who knew him for even a day experienced what it was like to know him for a lifetime; his kindness and kinship came without reservation and knew no bounds. He fiercely loved all who had the privilege of sharing in his life’s journey. Even through the seemingly endless hours of intense and agonizing medical procedures, therapy and rehabilitation, he showed an immortal compassion. Without fail, he’d hold the hand of his caretakers, look into their eyes and say, “I love you” and “thank you for what you’re doing.”
Gido Gamil was a fighter. He overcame seemingly unbeatable odds with relentless dedication his entire life. His warrior spirit guided him all the way through his final days. He embraced discouraging news with resilience and hope. He met his lowest points with dignity and glee. And he selflessly worried more for his family and friends than his own afflictions. None of which came as a surprise—he spent a lifetime devoted to helping others in need and never once put himself first.
Above all, our cherished Gamil knew the value of a joke, especially in the darkest of times. He loved to laugh, to make others laugh and to celebrate moments no matter how small.
We commit ourselves to keeping his memory alive through celebration, rejoicing and laughter. We honor his incredible legacy by banishing despair and uplifting an everlasting spirit of happiness. We remember him with reverence in our hearts and a cup of tea with extra sugar in our hands!
Gamil Sabet Eskalis.
Beloved husband of 50 years to the love of his life. Devoted father. Proud grandfather. The greatest of friends to countless people around the world. Selfless servant to God. Rest in peace. We are forever grateful for every moment we were blessed to share with you. Till we meet again.
Please join us if you’re able as we celebrate him and his legacy February 28 and 29 in Jacksonville, Florida. A full schedule of events and links to live webcasts is below.
If you’re considering sending flowers or anything else to commemorate our dear Gamil, we know he would much rather have you contribute toward helping others. He wasn’t much for flowers, but would have appreciated your donation toward his beloved Saint Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church or helping the American Heart Association find treatments for those who suffer his afflictions.
Friday, February 28, 2019 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Wake and Viewing Service, Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park and Funeral Home
7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205
Saturday, February 29, 2019
8:30 a.m. Liturgy
*Live webcast available on Facebook & website
St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church
100 Bernard Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218
http://www.stdemianachurch.org/livebroadcast.html
11:00 a.m. Funeral Service
*Live webcast available on Facebook & website
St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church
100 Bernard Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218
http://www.stdemianachurch.org/livebroadcast.html
2:00 p.m. Graveside Service, Hardage-Giddens Riverside Memorial Park and Funeral Home
7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205
4:00 p.m. Reception
St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church
100 Bernard Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218
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