Rev. Dr. Jimmy E Gilbert Jr.

** Special Highlight on Presiding Elder Jimmy E Gilbert, Jr. Ministerial Career**
All of those within the CME church, and countless others from various denominations,
had often heard Jim refer to himself as "Nothing but an Old Gray-headed Country
Preacher". Many people continued to hear him use that excerpt even after he became a
Presiding Elder. Those who knew him on his life's journey came to realize that this
"humbling phrase" was an anchor to keep him grounded to who he was and where he
came from irrespective of any titles he attained.
The CME Church's appointment of him to serve as the Presiding Elder of the Charleston
- Columbia District was one of his most treasured achievements as a minister in the CME
church, as well as one of the most humbling and significant experiences in his long
ministerial career.
As the proud Presiding Elder of the Charleston - Columbia District, he provided leadership
guidance and oversaw the spiritual guidance to thirty-nine CME church Pastors in
their respective pastorates. Throughout the years of his two tenures as Elder, Jim always
had a special place in his heart for Retired Ministers who had given all of themselves in
service to the church.
It was out of this concern, that during his second appointment as Presiding Elder; he
instituted a Special District Retired Ministers Project to show them "Thank You" with an
annual financial recognition of substance. The District Project later expanded to become
The Retired Ministers/Minister's Spouses & Widows Project. Rev. Gilbert Served a total
of twenty years as Presiding Elder over two terms. His first appointment began in 1988
and ended in 1992 and his second was from 2001 until his retirement from active pastoring
in the CME Church in 2015.Reverend Dr. Jimmy Elbert Gilbert, Jr., a beacon of faith and a pillar of the Columbia, SC community, was born into this world on September 20, 1940, to the late Jimmy Elbert Gilbert, Sr., and Mary McFadden Gilbert in Danville, VA., and was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Lenora Donnell Gilbert in Greensboro, NC. On July 28, 2024, he completed his earthly journey and was called to his heavenly home. Rev. Gilbert was joined in holy matrimony to Attorney Annie Staton Gilbert and they were married for 53 years. From this union, they were blessed with two children, a daughter Lenora Ann and a son Jimmy, III.
Rev. Gilbert was referred to as "Big Jim" by his children and affectionately as "Jim" by his wife and friends. His journey began in Greensboro, NC, where the foundations of his education were laid within the Guilford County Public School System, culminating with his graduation from Dudley High School. His thirst for knowledge led him to Livingston College in Salisbury, NC, where he earned the Bachelor of Arts degree in 1962. Furthering his academic pursuits, he later attained a Master of Divinity Degree from Wesley Theological Seminary at American University, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Howard University. His scholarly achievements were matched only by his unwavering devotion to faith and community. With a deep commitment to brotherhood, he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, taking pride in the lifelong title of "Nupe."
After completing his college education, he felt a sense of duty to serve his nation and joined the United States Army in June,1962. His commitment saw him through the first path of his military career ending active service in March,1985. During his active services he was assigned to the esteemed 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. While in active service he received his calling to the ministry, embracing his role as chaplain, providing spiritual guidance to those serving with him. He received, including, the Army Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal, all were symbols of his dedication, but none were so cherished as the Jump Wings-the the Parachutist Badge-a mark for his bravery and were held close to his heart. After active duty, his passion for service did not wane, leading him to join the S.C. Army National Guard, where he served from 1975 to 1990 and was called to active duty during Desert Storm, serving from August, 1990 - February, 1991, rising through the ranks to the esteemed position of Captain.
Rev. Gilbert's journey as God's faithful servant began in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, marking the start of a ministerial career that would span more than four decades. His unwavering commitment to service, deeply rooted in a caring spirit for others, left an indelible mark on the communities he touched. His service began in the communities of Washington, DC, where he laid the foundation for ministry, nurturing the faith of his flock. He furthered this devotion in Columbia, SC, Batesburg-Leesville, SC, and Greenville, SC, extending the same love, care, and concern for the souls of his members. His ministry was not confined to the walls of the church; it reached to the community, fostering growth and development within the church setting and beyond. Rev. Gilbert's legacy as a pivotal figure in the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus, starting as a staffer and Research Director, becoming the first Executive Director saw the inception of the Corporate Roundtable, all a testament to his visionary leadership. Rev. Gilbert's profound impact on the Caucus and its initiatives reflects a life dedicated to service, leadership, and the betterment of others.
Highlights of professional work experience:
-Research Consultant at the Office of the Governor in Columbia, SC, contributing to policy development and strategic initiatives, Columbia, SC.
-Educated future leaders as an Adjunct Professor at Midlands Technical College (Columbia, SC), Hood Theology Sermon School (Salisbury, NC), and Morris College -Pastoral Ministry Program (Sumter, SC).
-Advanced housing opportunities as a Staff Research/Field Representative for the Housing Opportunities Council in Metropolitan Washington, DC.
-Fostered community and youth development as Director-Coordinator of the Brentwood -Youth Center in Washington, DC.
-Championed youth empowerment through leadership as Director-Organizer of the Northwest Neighborhood Youth Organization in Washington, DC.
-Advocated for urban community improvement as a Community Organizer at the Wesley Institute for Urban Ministry in Washington, DC.
-Addressed youth gang challenges with innovative programs as a Youth Gang -Supervisor at Wesley Institute Seminary in Washington, DC.
-Supported migrant communities as a Migrant Minister for the Pennsylvania Council of Churches in Harrisburg, PA.
A vision birthed from his doctoral thesis; he, along with eight members of Israel Metro created a Community Development Corporation, the only faith based corporation in Greenville, SC that was established from a 501(c3), IMESA foundation was a pioneering initiative that that brought valuable social services and technological advancement as a linkage between the community and church. Under his guidance, a significant partnership with the Urban League of Upstate South Carolina, First Union Bank, and the foundation exemplifies his life's work as a shining example of the extraordinary outcomes that can be achieved when compassion is coupled with action for the collective benefit.
Rev. Gilbert was recognized far and wide, earning him recommendations from the Richland County Legislative Delegation and appointments by Governor Edwards and Governor Riley to lead the Board of Columbia Area Mental Health Center, a regional agency with a staff of 130, demonstrating his exceptional administrative capabilities and his passion for mental health advocacy.
Highlights of volunteer services:
-Contact Help, Inc. Pre Release Center Advisory Committee, Columbia, SC
-Community Care, Inc., Columbia, SC
-The Killingsworth Home for Girls, Columbia, SC
-Operation PUSII, Columbia, SC
-Greater Columbia Relations Council, Columbia, SC
-Richland County Community Development Citizens Advisory Committee, Columbia, SC
-Executive Board of the Central South Carolina Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Columbia, SC
-Alston Wilkes Society
-Governor's Task Force on Highway Safety
-Christian Action Council
-United Way of the Midlands
-Neighborhood Crime Prevention Program Advisory Council
-The South Carolina Employment and Training Council
-The annual ALS Walk
-Ministerial Alliance of Columbia
-Chairman, Social Actions Committee
-Vice Chair, Midlands Housing Coalition
Awards recognition for selfless service to community:
-Outstanding Service Board Chairperson of the Columbia Area Mental Health Center
-Outstanding Service as Board Member of the Family Service Center of Columbia
-Special recognition for outstanding service and dedication service to the National -Training School for Boys
-The Lemond-Riggs Citizens Association award for outstanding service to the community
-Boys Clubs of America award for cooperation and support
His legacy of church leadership and community service will forever be cherished and remembered.
Rev. Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy Elbert Gilbert, Sr. and Mary Mcfadden Gilbert, and his only brother, Willie Harper. He leaves to remember his life and cherished memories: his supportive wife of 53 years, Annie Staton Gilbert, Esq., Pinteops, NC, one daughter, Lenora Ann Gilbert Ross (Dennis), Pittsboro, NC; and one son, Jimmy Elbert Gilbert, III, Pinetops, NC; three sisters, Mamie Mae Stone and Mary Lee Utsey, New York, NY; Margie Stewart, Greensboro, NC, and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.
The family is requesting that all
"very much appreciated "cards, letters, telegram expressions of sympathy/condolences be sent to Palmers Memorial Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made in memory of Rev Dr. Jimmy E. Gilbert, Jr. to the Charleston-Columbia District, "designated" for The Retired Ministers and Ministers Spouses /Widows of the Charleston-Columbia District.
Please make checks or money orders payable to The Charleston-Columbia District.
2 Rebecca's Ct.
North Augusta, S.C. 29860