Gilbert Tant (Ted Gilbert) (Age 82) a long-time resident of Clayton and Raleigh, NC, died peacefully on February 2, 2024.

Most recently, he worked with Chick-fil-a in Garner as part of their Front of House staff - a labor of love. Before retiring, he was a top salesman for Durham Life and Pilot Life Insurance companies as well as Electrolux and Pine State Milk.

A selfless servant of God and disciple of Jesus Christ - volunteer service was a constant endeavor and theme of his life.  A dutiful and engaged parent, Gilbert served on every PTA and Fundraising committee benefitting the school including building a playground with equipment he solicited for donation, paper and can drives, dunk tank dunkee - anything to benefit the school or its marching band.  The News and Observer covered his portrayal of The Great Pumpkin promoting the fall fundraiser benefitting me Lewis H Powell Elementary School.

An avid baseball player and fan, Gilbert coached Little League Baseball in the 1970's and 80's - most notably for the 1981 Compton Pilot Mills championship team (Lions Park, Raleigh)

Son of Herman and Thelma Horton, Gilbert was born in 1941 and raised in Wake Forest. He served honorably in the U.S. Army (1964-1967).

Gilbert is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beverly Busby Tant (2008), his parents; brother, Charles and sister, Linda Kay. He leaves behind his brother: Stanley; children: Kelley, Steven and Jimmy; grand-children: Aaron, Amanda, Michael, Cathleen, Ryan, Russell and Rylie; great grand-children Elias, Sophia, Eliana and Freya; and many other dear family members, friends and associates.

A service will be held at Parrish Funeral Home, 1351 South Pollack St, Selma, NC on Saturday, February 17 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in his name to the Able to serve charity (abletoserve.org).

If you are sending flowers please consider The Town Florist 205 West Edwards Street Princeton, North Carolina 27569 Phone: 9196349845 TheTownFloristSelma@gmail.com