Perry Gilbert, 74

FELTON - Perry Gilbert, of Felton, died peacefully at home on Thursday, June 5, 2008. He was 74.

He was born on Sept. 22, 1933, in Vidalia, Ga., and was the son of Edith and Nathan Gilbert.

Perry and his family traveled to Florida early in his education where he entered the work force to help provide for his family.

During his adolescent traveling Perry met Juanita Giddens and together they made the decision to settle to raise their family and start a business as an agricultural contractor where he had the opportunity to meet and touch the lives of many young people.

Perry took the opportunity to educate everyone that would listen of the importance of education and having a strong work ethic and most importantly he would always say "work for what you want because life is not just going to hand it to you."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edith and Nathan Gilbert; his son, Perry Lebert Giddens; and his lifelong companion, Juanita Giddens.

He leaves to a legacy to be remembered and cherished by his sister, Arillia Gilbert of Belle Glade, Fla.; two daughters, Nita Benson of Felton, and DA and Madline Mendoza of Frederica; five sons, John and Allen Giddens and McKelvin Gilbert, all of Felton, Daniel Giddens of Dover, and Eric Giddens of Frederica; two daughters-in-law, Shirley and Kendra Giddens of Felton; two sons-in-law, Essirie Benson of Felton and Uriel Mendoza of Frederica; 21 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Viewing will be from 4-6 p.m. Thursday in Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Dover.

Services will be 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, where friends may view two hours prior.

Burial will be private.