William Earl Gilbreath

William E. Gilbreath passed away on December 31, 2013, after struggling to overcome injuries acquired secondary to a fall at his home just prior to Christmas. William "Bill" died peacefully while being cared for by the attentive staff in the ICU at Presbyterian Hospital Denton. He was at peace with himself, God, and his family.
Bill was born July 7, 1940, to Raymond and Vada Gilbreath in Denton, Texas. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 54 years LaDell Gilbreath; daughter, DeAnn Watson and son-in-law Dennis Watson; son, William R. Gilbreath; his beloved grandchildren Lyndsea and Will, and a sister Mary Flach, and a brother John Gilbreath. Bill was devoted to his adoring family, and well-liked by those who came to know him. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Mauda Ray Sprabary and Ruby Norman.
Bill attended Denton High School and also served the U.S. ARMY as a weapons specialist assigned to Germany to guard the Berlin Wall. After an honorable discharge from the ARMY, Bill worked as a professional printer for many years. He was very bright and had many talents, which allowed him to become a successful private business owner, long haul truck transport operator, Denton Firefighter and eventually a comfortably retired individual. Bill was a voracious reader and avid football fan. He took great enjoyment just sitting on his back patio feeding the birds and squirrels and caring for his two cats. He was truly a gentle giant, as he had a heart for all of God's creatures. He was a member of Cooper Creek Baptist Church. He will truly be missed by all of us, but we take great comfort in the knowledge that he is in the arms of his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, January 4, 2014 at Gateway United Baptist Church, 2401 N. Bell Ave., Denton, TX. A visitation will follow the service. Rev. Buddy Owens will officiate the service.