Georgia Mae Hilson, daughter of the late Willie Mae Gilbert, Turner Gilbert, Jr., and Minnie Lee David Gilbert, was born on October 27, 1949, in Blakely, Georgia.

During the early years of her life after moving to Albany, Georgia with her family, she attended the public schools of Dougherty County, including Monroe High School.  She was actively involved in numerous school organizations and graduated in the class of 1967.

As a youth, Georgia accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior.  She was baptized and received the "right hand of fellowship"  into the body of Christ.   A devoted member of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church and an obedient Christian, she served the Lord and rejoiced in His name.

Georgia was also a giver—she was a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who  gave her all to care for the needs of her family.  For many years, she labored untiringly as head cook at Golden Corral, and later retired from Texas Star after rendering innumerable years of dedicated and loyal service.

Georgia's life was full of interesting experiences.  She had a spirit of sunshine and laughter that could be felt by all those who encountered her.  She greatly valued and cherished her family, friends, and co-workers; and she truly enjoyed engaging them in hours of heartfelt conversation.

On Thursday, August 1, 2019, Georgia departed this earthly life at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Brewer Gilbert; and seven siblings, James Edward Gilbert, Emory Gilbert, Alfonzo Gilbert, Fred Gilbert, Marcus T. Johnson, Ruby Nell Gilbert, and Betty Jo Gilbert.

Precious memories will be forever cherished by her children, Michael (Cynthia) Gilbert of Atlanta, GA and Sonji (Randy) Downs of Albany, GA; grandchildren, Shantorria Gilbert and Navaris Green of Atlanta, GA, Stevie (Alisha) Bowens and Narkisa Hilson of LaGrange, GA, and Mikayla Gilbert of Columbia, MD; great grandchildren, Nazaria Green, Sa'Nyia Bowens, Ariana Bowens, Jayceon Bowens, and Justyce Bowens; siblings, Ralph (Cynthia) Gilbert of South Carolina, Pinkie Mae (Ollie) Moore, Lula Mae Gilbert, Pearlene Gilbert, and Latricia Gilbert all of Albany, GA, Jacquelyn (Jeffery) McDowell of Atlanta, GA, and Christopher A. Johnson of Louisville, KY; sisters-in-law, Annie Hilson and Thelma Gilbert; her best friend for over 20 years, Leola Hill; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.