Gilbert Winston Freeman Jr. was born on December 19, 1940, in Martin’s Ferry, Ohio, to Lylah Chapman and Gilbert Winston Freeman Sr. He was an easy-going and fun-loving child.

He attended Mt. Pleasant High School in Mt. Pleasant, OH where he graduated in 1958. After graduation, he enlisted in The United States Air Force, Airmen First Class, where he served as an Air Policeman, having been stationed in Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1964.

Upon completion of his service to our country, Gilbert met the love of his life, Henrietta. They married in 1974. Gilbert retired from RTA, where he worked for over 25 years as a Hostler. He had a passion for motorcycles, and owned several throughout his life. He was also a fan of baseball, being one of the Guardians biggest critics.

At an early age Gilbert confessed his life to Christ and would later become a founding member, along with his wife, and several others, of this very church we sit in today. He studied to become a Deacon, and became the creator of the Deacon Board where he served many years as an active member. Gilbert was a loving and kind man who will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lylah and Gilbert Sr., and his wife of 47 years, Henrietta.

He leaves to mourn his passing his sons, Kevin and Shawn (Francesca); daughter-in-law, Vanessa; cousins, Kathleen, Colleen, and Lylah; grandchildren, Nyre, Christian, Mia, Ryan, Camille, Nevaeh, Shamere, Darion, Raven, Samir (Kyra), Akier, Kiana, Leah, and Cfevne, along with 14 great grandchildren.