Gerald "Wayne" Gilbert

Gerald “Wayne” Gilbert, a lifelong member of the Converse community, passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on October 18, 1942, in Converse, South Carolina, Wayne was the son of the late James Gilbert and Ruth Fowler Gilbert.

Wayne was a man whose life was deeply anchored in his faith. A devoted member of Converse Baptist Church for nearly two decades, he took seriously what he viewed as his God-given mission: sharing the message of salvation. Wayne approached this calling with urgency and purpose, believing every conversation was an opportunity for someone to come to know Jesus. Passing out gospel tracts was not a casual habit for him—it was his work, his ministry, and his joy. He spoke often and earnestly about the importance of others being saved, and he lived each day with eternity in mind.

For many years, Wayne worked as a Produce and Dairy Manager at Winn Dixie in Spartanburg, where he earned a reputation as “the best manager the store ever had.” He was a true expert in his field—meticulous, disciplined, and known for his supreme work ethic and attention to detail. Wayne took pride in doing things the right way and believed strongly in honest, hard work.

Above all else, Wayne treasured his family. His relationship with his daughter, Angela, was the center of his earthly joy. He treated her as if she were the only person in the world, and she was his heart just as much as he was hers. His love for her was constant, tender, and unwavering, and those who knew them saw a bond that was truly special.

Wayne was a simple man who needed very little to be content, yet his life was rich in heart. He found happiness in sports, fishing, cooking, gardening, and enjoying a good meal with others. He also loved fellowship and was a familiar face at local favorites such as Boots’ & Sonny’s Drive-In and Sugar & Spice Drive-In, where he was known not only by name but by his usual order. His deep love of baseball, particularly the Atlanta Braves, was a joy to witness. Baseball was in his blood, as he was the nephew of the late Art Fowler.

He is survived by his daughter, Angela Gilbert Mathis (Steve) of Cowpens. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Casey Mathis (Morgan) of Spartanburg, Catelyn Mathis of Cowpens, Connor Mathis of Spartanburg, Alex Mathis of Goose Creek, SC, and Cross Mathis (fiancé Erica) of Cowpens; and his great-grandchildren, Freya Mathis of Cowpens and Maren Mathis of Spartanburg. He is also remembered fondly by his niece, Penny Maxwell of Rock Hill, SC.

Wayne will eternally rest beside his first wife, Patricia, who remained a dear friend throughout their lives. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother; and his brother, Eddie Dean.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Converse Baptist Church, 325 Main Street, Converse, SC. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, with entombment at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens Heritage Chapel Mausoleum. Services will be conducted by Rev. Mike Davis and Rev. Daniel Godfrey.

Wayne Gilbert will be deeply missed by his family, church, and community. Though his earthly work is complete, his faith, devotion, and love will continue to echo in the lives he touched—and in the souls he so earnestly prayed would find Jesus.

In lieu of flowers, the family and his church ask that you honor his life and legacy by making a contribution to Fellowship Tract League, Lebanon, Ohio, mail@fellowshiptractleague.org, PO Box 164 Lebanon, OH 45036.

Floyd's North Church Street Chapel