Frances Gilbert

Published 7:23 pm Monday, December 29, 2014

Frances Gilbert died Sunday morning, Dec. 28, 2014, after a lengthy illness. She was 82 years old. Born in West Blocton, Frances made Selma her permanent home in 1965.

Frances’ most cherished role in life was that of a devoted mother and grandmother. She was also a faithful daughter, and her love for her sisters was unending. Her familial love extended far beyond actual relatives, including friends, work family and neighbors. People who knew Frances will remember her infectious smile and sweet spirit. She believed in a good work ethic and approached every job as if it were a divine appointment. She loved her church, her Sunday school class and the Lord.

Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Aaron A. Gilbert; mother, Lillian S. McClellan; sisters, Edith Rae M. Wiemer and Willodean M. Gilbert; brother, Cecil McClellan; and her beloved first grandchild, Heather Dawn Newman.

She is survived by her son, Kenneth C. Moreland Sr.; daughter, Francine M. Blair; grandchildren, Leah K. Moreland, Kenneth C. Moreland Jr., Amanda M. Brown, Kendale R. Whalen (Thomas), Laykin E. Blair and Taylor L. Blair; seven great-grandchildren; and sisters Libby Fitts and Margie M. Stephens, both of West Blocton.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014, at 2 p.m. at Elkdale Baptist Church with the Rev. Cory Horton officiating. Interment will follow in New Live Oak Cemetery with Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home directing. Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 1 p.m.