Gilbert J. Spencer

gilbert spencer

October 15, 1935 ~ January 16, 2025

Born in: New Haven, Connecticut
Resided in: Hamden, Connecticut

We are saddened to announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Gilbert J. Spencer of Hamden. He passed away peacefully at home on January 16, 2025. Gilbert was born October 15, 1935, son of the late Raymond K. and Mildred Delsole Spencer.

A lifelong resident of Hamden, CT, he was a member of the Hamden Fire Department for 39 years, and retired in 1992 with the rank of Commander.

Gilbert was a life member and Historian of the Sleeping Giant Park Association, where he was the first ever Giant Master, and came to be known as “Mr. Sleeping Giant.”

He was a lifelong member of Mount Carmel Congregational Church and took pride in the history behind the Spencer family pew.

He was a life member and former board member of many organizations, including the Hamden Land Trust, and West Rock Park Association. He was also a member of the Mount Carmel Volunteer Fire Association, and the Hamden Journey Club.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Helen Emmons Spencer, son John (Susan) Spencer of North Haven, CT, daughter Kathleen (Paul) May of Forest, VA, and 7 grandchildren, John, Kristen, Lauren, and Kevin Spencer, and Jessie, Jamie, and John May. Also survived by a sister Roberta Warfield of Cheshire, nieces and nephews, and innumerable friends. The family wishes to thank the members of the Hamden Fire Department and his medical caregivers for their care and friendship in his final years.

A Graveside Service will be held Tuesday January 21, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Centerville Cemetery, Washington Avenue, Hamden. All are invited at 12 noon to Mt. Carmel Congregation Church Parish House, 3284 Whitney Avenue, Hamden following his burial for a Celebration of Gil’s life. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Mount Carmel Congregational Church, 3284 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, CT 06518. To send Gil’s family a condolence, please see obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com

Services

Graveside Service: January 21, 2025 11:00 am

Centerville Cemetery
247 Washington Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518


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  1. Dear Helen, John, Kathy and your families, we are so sorry for your loss. Mr Gilbert was a kind, wonderful, gentle man. I will always treasure the years our families spent together in New Hampshire.

  2. One of the joys of my time as pastor at Mount Carmel has been my visits with Gil and Helen. I have learned a lot of history, heard a bunch of great stories, and had a chance to get to know an amazing human being. I am going to miss him.

    Peace,
    Milton

  3. I had the honor of living across the street for him for over 25 years. He was a great neighbor very happy and was willing to help you with anything he’s left behind a beautiful family. May he rest in peace

    • Mrs Spencer and family,
      Thoughts are with you, very sorry to read of another one of Mt Carmel’s own passing. Very grateful to have been able to connect back up for a bit, and may the many memories of the caring community be of great comfort to you all as well.
      Lisa Pelletier and family

  4. Gil’s love of the Sleeping Giant and enthusiasm for sharing his unique knowledge of its lore and history have been invaluable contributions to park visitors and members of the Sleeping Giant Park Association. In helping us to better understand the story of the Giant, he leaves behind a lasting legacy for Hamden residents and friends of the Sleeping Giant. Please accept my most sincere and heartfelt condolences.

  5. Dearest Helen and Family,
    I am so saddened to hear about Gil’s passing. I will always remember the wonderful times we had at Victor and Gail’s. His sense of humor was the best! RIP my dear friend..

  6. Dear Helen and family,
    We are sorry to learn of the passing of our long time neighbor.
    May he rest in peace.
    The Klatzkie family

  7. Helen, My sincere sympathy to you and your family on Gil’s death. He certainly suffered long enough. May he now rest in peace.

  8. Dear Helen and family,

    We are sad to hear the news about Gil. It was an honor to know him. We will miss his insights and sense of humor. May the memories you have of Gil always be a source of joy and comfort. Please accept our deepest condolences.
    Sincerely.
    Shari and David

  9. Dear Helen,

    We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband. May he rest in peace. Our condolences to you and your family.

    Sue and Chuck Aprea

  10. I am so sorry Helen and family for your loss. He fought long and graciously over the past few years. Wishing you peace and fond memories.

  11. Helen,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Gil was a good man and you took such good care of him. Thinking of you and your family. With love, Joan

  12. I am so very sorry Helen, I would come down, but, I have been sick for over a week now with some kind of virus, would not want to bring it down and make others sick. Will be thinking about you,
    My prayers will be with you and your family. If you need someone to talk to, give me a call. I know what you are going through.
    802-754-6996

  13. That big one that got away on Waukewan is still out there swimming around!!! He was a great man who has left behind truly wonderful families who will forward on his memory . Forever in our hearts. Joanne and Family.

  14. I always liked and respected Gil during my time on the HFD. Good guys are hard to find, he was one. John Bellmore (HFD retired).

  15. Helen and Family,
    So sorry for your loss. Gil will be greatly missed. He was one of a kind I will miss his witty humor, gentle voice, and overall kindness. My “shrinking giant” will forever hold a special place in my heart Wishing you all peace and love during this difficult time
    Xoxo


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