Richard Gilbert Krenson

Passed away January 28, 2021 at the age of 91. Born August 19, 1929 in Atlanta. Gilbert’s family moved to Nashville in 1934. He is preceded in death by his parents James Robert Krenson and Mittie Lahatte Krenson, his brother James Robert Krenson Jr. and his sister Patsy Hibbett. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Krenson, children Eddie (Martha), John (Carrie), and Jay, five grandchildren, Jennifer (Adam) Thompson, Jason Krenson, Constance (John) Hill, Dasha Krenson and Evan Krenson, nine great-grandchildren, Anna, Sarah, Nathan, Mary and Rebecca Thompson, Caitlin and Landon Krenson and Savannah and Wyatt Hill, his sister Mickey Beazley and numerous nieces and nephews. Gilbert graduated from Fr. Ryan High School, St. Bernard Jr. College, Alabama and received his BS Degree from MTSU.

Gilbert was a Nashville Tennessee Volunteer. In January, 1951 he enlisted to serve four years in the U.S. Air Force. While at Fairbanks, Alaska in 1952 he was promoted to Staff Sergeant and volunteered to serve duty at the radar base at Cape Lisburne, 170 miles north of the Arctic Circle and the first and western-most part of the DEW (Distant Early Warning) Line. In 1954, his father, who was suffering with terminal cancer, received a letter from the Dow Air Force Base, Maine Commanding Officer that Gilbert had received the “Outstanding Airman” Award of his Squadron for the past six month period.

After his Honorable Discharge from the Air Force Gilbert worked at Ford Motor Co.’s Nashville Glass Plant, retiring as a Financial Analyst. Gilbert enjoyed gardening, bowling, tennis and golf. He was elected Tennessee State President of the Senior Catholic Youth Organization for one year, was a Cub Master for two years, a Junior Achievement business advisor, a Mass lector for twelve years at the Cathedral of the Incarnation and Christ the King churches. Gilbert volunteered at St. Thomas Hospital, Room in the Inn, Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, the Metro Adult Literacy Program and served on the Davidson County Grand Jury. He and his family did two two-week Appalachian Missions. Gilbert has an American Red Cross “Thank You” Certificate for his lifetime donation of more than 10 gallons of blood. After retirement, Gilbert worked five years part-time as Tuition and Finance Officer for St. Ann Church and School. During retirement he enjoyed family time with his children and grandchildren, built six Adirondack chairs, lawn furniture, a gazebo and a Koi water garden and deck.

Most importantly, Gilbert achieved three things so many strive for: he was devoted to and adored his wife of nearly sixty years and she adored him back; he raised three sons who loved and respected him; and he provided well for all of them.

Thanks to the Alive Hospice staff, residents and staff of St. Paul Senior Living Community and to Gilbert’s many friends and relatives for their love and support. A celebration of life will be held at a later date due to COVID-19. Memorials in Gilbert’s name may be made to the Pinson Hospital Hospitality House which was founded in 1974 by Gilbert’s wife Ann Krenson and his sister Mickey Beazley.