Raymond Gilbert: From Lowell mechanic to Navy guard and Florida retiree

Raymond Wilfred Gilbert, a father of five and grandfather of thirteen, has passed away. The family also counts two great-granddaughters among the next generation of his lineage. His life spanned four decades of military and civilian work, moving from industrial New England to the halls of Washington and finally to the sunbelt of Florida.

Gilbert was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, to Wilfred and Theresa Gilbert. He attended Lowell Trade School and began his career as a mechanic for the local telephone company. In 1973, he enlisted in the Navy. He served during the administrations of Presidents Nixon, Ford, and Carter. His military duty included postings at Camp David and the White House, assignments he held until 1977.

Upon leaving the Navy, Gilbert returned to the telephone company. He advanced to the role of journeyman splicer and repair technician. He retired from that position in May 1997. He continued working for other telephone companies before joining the Transportation Security Administration. In 2000, he purchased a home in Florida. He maintained a residence in New Hampshire until 2005, when he moved to Florida permanently. The family continued to travel north for the summer months.

Gilbert is survived by his wife, Lynda. His children include sons David, Duane, and Ray Jr., who is married to Jess. His daughters are Tammy St. John, Michelle Wayment, who is married to Shane, and Danielle Taylor, who is married to Duane. The family also includes a son by bone marrow donation, Andy Bethe, who lives in Germany. Bethe, his wife Maria, and their children, Luan and Alia, are considered part of the immediate family.

The Gilbert family describes Raymond as a loving husband, father, uncle, and friend. He will be remembered by his large extended family and his adopted son in Germany.