Gloria Gilbert

To all friends and family. With a heavy heart we announce the passing of Gloria Gilbert of Searcy, Ark. She was born Ernestine Estelle Gloria Jean Bright on July 15, 1937 in Dundee, Miss. She was raised and lived in Pine Bluff, Ark. where she bore and raised three children of her own. As a faithful Christian, enjoyed the fellowship of many, many churches. Ever supportive of her children, she was active in Boy Scouting as a den mother, pack leader, assistant scoutmaster and cook at summer camp. She has won various awards in scouting including the Silver Beaver. She was also vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. She would also go on to help her two sons become Eagle Scouts. She aided her children to further their education by attending and graduating from Foothills Technical Institute at the age of 62 with a certificate in basic electronics. Her two sons graduated with her and her daughter graduated the previous year. Later in life she would join the Masonic family by becoming a member of Gleaner Star chapter #338 Order of the Eastern Star Jurisdiction of Arkansas. She also encouraged her daughter and granddaughter to join. Gloria lived a life of service to others as she worked in child care, dietary, and later would retire as caregiver to the elderly. She enjoyed life, fellowship with others, and most of all her walk with God. She always had a smile, a kind word, and a laugh that could make your worst day seem not too bad. Gloria departed this world on Tuesday morning, Jan. 13, 2015. She is survived by three children, Adriel Matshoba and spouse Pila, Cornelius Gilbert with Karen Gibson, Christopher Gilbert and spouse Fanni. Further survived by four grandchildren, De-Borah Thompson with Gary Holt, Nala Shepherd, Elijah Matshoba and Timothy Gilbert. She was also blessed to have one great-grandchild, Micah Holt. She also leaves behind a host of family and friends. Gloria's Home going service will be held Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015 at 9 a.m. at Lighthouse Pentecostal Church, 505 North Apple Street in Beebe, Ark. with a short visitation at 8 a.m.