Eugene Gilbert

Eugene Gilbert, 76, El Dorado Springs, passed away on Friday, Sept. 11, 2009, at Community Springs Healthcare Facility after a long battle with cancer. Eugene was born in St. Clair County, near Collins, on Aug. 14, 1933, the son of Perry and Autna (Thompson) Gilbert.

Eugene grew up in the Brush Creek and Birdsong areas of St. Clair County. On Sept. 1, 1956, he was married in Overland Park, KS, to Orpha Louise Vickers. He worked most of his adult life with the local telephone companies. He enjoyed bowling, water skiing, four-wheeling, fishing, gardening, everything about farming and most of all his large family.

Preceding Eugene in death were his parents, seven brothers, and two sisters.

Eugene is survived by his wife of 53 years, Orpha Louise; two brothers, Lynn and wife, Sue, and Larry and wife, Marsha; two sisters, Vernice Cain and husband, Harvey, and Irene Bryant; a host of nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Services were held on Tuesday, Sept. 15, in the Bland-Hackleman Chapel with Brent Bland and James Coleman officiating. Interment followed in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery under the direction of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were - William Gilbert, Kristopher Gilbert, Gabriel Gilbert, Travis Gilbert, Daniel Sumner and Brian Sumner. Honorary pallbearers were - Lynn Gilbert, Larry Gilbert, Ray Spencer, Tom Cain and Chris Vickers.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Eugene Gilbert to High Hopes. Contributions may be left at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.