Lydia Gilbert

Lydia Mae Helms Gilbert, 91 years of age, of Locust formerly of Charlotte, passed away Friday, October 30, 2015 at her daughter' home.

Mrs. Gilbert was born March 23, 1924 in Wingate, NC to the late Hugh Emsley Helms and Vinnie Rogers Helms. She was also preceded in death by her husband Richard D. "Paul" Gilbert, a son Hugh D. "Hugh Dawg" Gilbert, eight brothers, Cyrus Jasper, Simon Parks, Mattie Graham, Homer Aubrey, Hubert Blair, Hugh Emsley, Charles Pickett and James Alfred Helms, five sisters Ruby Johnson Funderburk, Janie Willard Redwine, Dorothy Kate Link, Pearl Dee Austin and Vinnie Lee Rollins.

Mae married the man of her dreams Paul Gilbert in June 1957. With this union they were blessed with twins in September 1962. Paul passed away in September 1967. She never remarried.

Mae worked for Southern Bell retiring in 1984 with 38 years of service. She was a member of CWA Local 3603. In her earlier years she enjoyed going to the beach, attending NASCAR races and gardening. She was an avid fan of the Tarheels and Braves not missing a game. "Flossie" her nickname given to her by her brothers, was a woman of strength, courage and grace. During her battle with breast cancer and later with lung cancer never did we see her shed tears, always a smile on her face. You always left her home with a smile on your face and feeling happy. As she would always say "It's 5 o'clock somewhere". She will surely be missed !!!

Survivors include one daughter, Dwan Hahn and husband Roger of Locust; one granddaughter, Chasity Moore, and two great-granddaughters, Skylar and Emma.

In keeping with Mrs. Gilbert's wishes her body will be donated to the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. There will be no services.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in remembrance of her son Hugh D. Gilbert to the American Diabetes Association.

For more information on whole body donation please contact: University of North Carolina School of Medicine Body Donation Program CB#7520 Chapel Hill, NC 27599 or call 919-966-1134.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Gilbert family.