Obituary of Julia Gilbert

SUNRISE April 30, 1930 -- SUNSET August 22, 2023 Julia Gilbert, affectionately known as “Sister” by her family, was a longtime resident of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Julia transitioned to be with the Lord from her residence at Elmwood Hills Healthcare Center in Blackwood, New Jersey. Julia, a fraternal twin to her brother Foster Gilbert Jr. (Deceased), was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Foster Jr. was killed in the Korean War in 1952 at the tender age of 22. Julia was the seventh of thirteen children born to the late Esther (Carter) and Foster Gilbert Sr. She is survived by her sisters, Amy Dowling, Ester Jones, and Florine (aka Helen) Cabbell, and brothers, David Gilbert (wife Vivian) and Richard Gilbert, along with many loving family members. Her siblings who preceded her in death are Carrie, Arlie, Dorothy, Mary, Foster Jr., Marie, and Cecelia. She loved her family very much and cared for her father, Foster, in his last days. She knew the dates of everyone’s birthdays and would share stories about the funny things that her sisters, brothers, nephews, and nieces had done over the years. Aunt Julia contributed to the lives of her nieces and nephews and was especially fond of her niece, Debbie Brown. Julia attended Philadelphia public schools. Sister was an avid reader of printed text and audio material; she read the entire Bible twice and displayed the strength of her very good memory and faith by quoting Bible scriptures. Psalm 23 was her favorite scripture. She also had a love of music and could “move with the groove while listening to R&B and Jazz.” She lived independently for many years at Park Tower Apartments in Philadelphia. She was employed at the Philadelphia Center for the Blind from the 1960s to the 1980s before retiring due to her disability. Julia was born with Marfan Syndrome and glaucoma that progressed over the years. Marfan Syndrome is a genetic condition that affects connective tissue, which provides support for the body and organs. By God’s grace and her determination, Julia beat the life expectancy of 70 years for individuals with this condition by 23 years, living to the blessed age of 93 years old. She never allowed her challenges to deter her from her social activities. Julia was a sociable butterfly who loved making friends and fondly shared stories of her family with everyone she met. She had a sense of humor and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She treated all with sincere love and concern. In the closing years of her life, Julia was supported by her sisters Amy and Helen, nieces Donna Cabbell and Judith Grannum, and beloved cousin Rev. Michael Youngblood. Julia will be missed by all who love her.