Gilbert (Gil) Anselm Allard, age 86 of Orlando, FL died on Friday May 13, 2016 after a brief illness. Gilbert was the son of Joseph and Agatha Allard of Grenville, Grenada. Gil attended and graduated from Grenada Boys Secondary School where he excelled academically. Gil was known for his athletic ability in cricket and soccer. His prowess as a fast-bowler in cricket gained him the nickname “Phantom”. Gil traveled with several teams throughout the West Indies representing Grenada.
Gil began his career in the housekeeping and laundry industry in Grenada holding several positions throughout the Island. In 1963, he emigrated from Grenada to Virgin Gorda, the British Virgin Islands to accept a position as Laundry Manager at the Little Dix Bay Resort Hotel. After several years in Virgin Gorda, Gil relocated to St. Thomas, the US Virgin Islands where he managed the Laundry of Blue Beard Garden Apartments, and provided Marketing for a Laundry Service throughout the island. Gil was actively involved in the Junior Chamber of Commerce of St. Thomas where he served as Vice President, and was also, a member of Toast Masters International.
In 1973, he emigrated from St. Thomas to Houston, TX where he joined his cousin, Dr. Rawle Andrews and accepted an assignment at St. Elizabeth Hospital as the Director of Housekeeping.
Gil married the love of his life Joan (Griffith) in 1979, and they continued to reside in Houston, TX for eight years. In 1988 Gil, Joan and their daughter Nicole, moved to San Diego, CA where he served as Manager of Laundry Services at the Le Méridien Hotel. In 1993, Gil retired and moved his family to Orlando, FL, to be near his sister Ruby, where he resided until his death.
Gil’s life revolved around his wife of 37 years, Joan, his children: Geoffrey, Richard and Nicole, grandsons: Jonathan and Isaiah and extended family. He was an active and devoted member of Church of the Ascension in Orlando, where he served as an Usher and Greeter and was strengthened in his faith.
Gil is survived by his beloved wife, Joan, sons: Geoffrey and Richard, daughter: Nicole, grandsons: Jonathan and Isaiah, sister: Ruby, brother: Walton, in-laws: Rhonda, Elvina, Marie, Patricia, Marjorie, Vincent, Ezra, Marlene, Frank, Joyce and Euston, several nieces and nephews (who knew him as Uncle Herbert), cousins, and many devoted friends.
The family will be receiving friends on Saturday, May 28th at 10:00 am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 at Church of the Ascension located at 4950 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando 32819.
