Willis Gilbert, Jr.
January 31, 1943 — June 15, 2010
Mr. Willis Elwood Gilbert Jr., 67, of Frederick, passed away Tuesday, June 15, 2010.
The son of Willis E. Gilbert Sr. and Ruby Brooks Gilbert, he was born Jan. 31, 1943, in Frederick. He attended Frederick County schools.
His inspiration was the Rev. Jonathan Davis of Mount Zion AME Church in Knoxville, where he attended service.
Willis Gilbert was affectionately known as "Little Boy."
He is survived by his wife, Thelma Gilbert of St. Pauls, N.C.; four children, Rubi Renee Bowles (Del), Tracey Gilbert Clayton (Joe), Timothy Kevin Mallory and Karen Michelle Mallory; a stepdaughter, Patricia Melvin (Michael); 11 grandchildren, Draco Mallory, Michael Mallory, Carlton Mallory, Craig Gilbert-Murphy, Darian Gil-bert-Murphy, Raedel Bowles, Mia Bowles, Joseph Clayton, Delano Bowles, Michael "Lil Rock" Melvin and Myiesha Melvin; one brother, Leonard "Buddy" Gilbert (Petra); four sisters, Gloria Crampton, Joyce Jackson, Perla Upson (Donald) and Betty Streams; four aunts, Rosie Campbell, Margaret Lee, Peggy Brooks and Frances Grimsley; and uncles, James Brooks and Robert Brooks. Numerous cousins, nieces and nephews; many friends, including Stevie Tibbs, Robert Williams, Leo Helms and Ralph Helms; and the mother of his children, Catherine "Pee Wee" Gilbert and Karen "Sister" Spriggs, also survive.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur Lee; and two grandsons, Jeremiah Bowles and Joseph Tyler Clayton.
Throughout his life he had worked many jobs, but he is most remembered as a master brick and stone mason.
No matter the occasion, "Little Boy" always stood by his word and was always willing to have a good time. He will most be remembered for always making you laugh.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday, June 20, at Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, June 21, at Thomas Tabernacle Holiness Church, 517 S. Market St., Frederick.
Interment will be in Resthaven Memorial Gardens.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at StaufferFuneralHome.com.