A Time to be born" Marshall "Tank" Gilbert was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 16, 1958 to the union of the late Charlie and Mary B. Gilbert. Marshall was the 'baby boy' of his parents, five siblings and two stepbrothers. As a child, Marshall enjoyed basketball, playing in the band, football and music. Marshall was baptized at an early age by Rev. E. E. Tutt at the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.
A Time to Acquire: Marshall attended Norton Elementary, Westwego Elementary and Worley Junior High School where he played in the marching band. He graduated from West Jefferson High School in 1976. There he played football and played trombone in the marching band. His love for music was vast, so much so, he played in the orchestra of the James Cleveland Gospel Music Workshop Choir on the Westbank. Marshall continued his education at Louisiana Tech University, it was at this time that he began wrestling and studying martial arts. Here he met, his brother/roommate, Myron Jenkins. Marshall was a second-degree black belt. He used this knowledge to hold karate classes with his nieces/nephews and other family friends. Marshall always used his acquired knowledge to build those around him.
Marshall started his work career at the Grain Elevator. Upon leaving, he began working at Jay Ray McDermott as a welder helper. Then he attended an apprenticeship program at Local Union 60 for plumbing and pipefitting, a job that he worked for 5 years where he helped build Waterford 3 Nuclear Power Plant.
To explore his love for music and fun, Marshall began working as a DJ (Super Soul Tank) in local and surrounding parishes. He loved to create an atmosphere of love and laughter. During this time, he met his leading lady, Shelia Zeno.
A Time to Rejoice: Marshall was the father of three: Jenea, Maurice and bonus daughter Shyla. The light in his eyes were his 9 grandchildren. Marshall cherished receiving one of his greatest gifts on his 50th birthday, his grandson, Jai'Marcus Pierce. Marshall loved celebrating with his family and friends, he loved them with his whole heart. He created many traditions of celebration with his family, such as: memorializing his mother's birthday with family at the Riverwalk; Mardi Gras parade hopping; family reunions planning sessions; tailgating at the Bayou Classic and Honda Battle of the Bands.
A Time to Reach Out and Live Life: Marshall's move to Dallas placed him on his path to success. It was here he met another brother/roommate: Kenny Warren. He was employed at Pinkerton Government Services for 30 years; he worked his way from a security guard to Regional Vice President of 5 states. His job afforded him the opportunity to travel all over the world.
Marshall continued pursuing his wrestling career as 'Super T' an amateur wrestler. His family was his greatest fans, and they enjoyed their visits to cheer him to victory in his wrestling matches.
Marshall returned to Avondale in 2010 to start a new journey with his sister as his newest roommate. They affectionately called their dining arrangement 'Ma Mary's Kitchen.' Jonetta would decide what she wanted to eat, and he would cook it just like their mother used to. Marshall would post his food on Facebook for the world to see and then invite family and friends over to join them for dinner. He also took pride in 'Super Soul Tank Productions' where he would make CD playlists, programs, bookmarks, tickets, etc. for family and friends. 'Super Soul Tank' always found a way to make those around him laugh while learning new skills. His
quest for music and knowledge lives in us all.
A Time to Die: As Marshall's health began declining, he served as an advocate and researcher for himself, learning as much as he could about his health and wellness. At the time of his departure Marshall was surrounded by loved ones.
A Time to Mourn: He was preceded in death by, His father, Charlie Gilbert Sr; mother, Mary B. Gilbert; brothers: Elijah Johnson, Emmett Gilbert Sr. and Joseph Gilbert; sister-in-love: Jeanette M. Gilbert; Dorothy P. Gilbert; niece, Joyce Gilbert and nephew, Emmett Gilbert Jr., and godchild Terrence Harris.
A Time to Cherish fond Memories: He leaves fond memories to: A devoted companion of 41 years, Shelia Zeno, daughters: Jenea Pierce (Reginald) and Shyla Zeno, son: Maurice; grandchildren: Jai'Marcus Pierce; Camia Gilbert; Reg'Zenea Elliott; Arabella Gilbert; Mark Bergeron Jr.; Shaylon Bergeron; MarQuell Bergeron; D'Mari Ross; beloved and devoted sister: Jonetta G. Jackson, brothers: Darnell Gilbert Sr., Charlie (Canary)Gilbert, Joesph (Shirley) Gilbert Sr.; sisters-in-love: Amanda Johnson, Beverly Gilbert; cousin/ adopted brother: Willie Harris; godparents: Cedric and April Jackson; nephews: Dalian (Valerie); Steven (Johtel); Kyle (Keokuk); Ennis; Darnell Jr.; Taylor; Tyler; Joseph Jr. (Watchulyn); nieces: Karin (Gus); Keva (Laron); Shannon; Shandrell (Thaddeus); Shelisa; Tondra; Charlene "Shawdawg" (Robert); Briana; Carolyn (Gary); Linda; godchild and niece: Kiana (Micheal); godchild: Brockton; adopted brothers: Myron Jenkins; Kenny Warren; Randell Donald; adopted baby sister: "Sistergirl" Dr. Jacqueline Clark; and a host of great and great-great nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family and friends.
A gentleman, A great Dad, A great Grandfather, A great brother, An amazing uncle & cousin, An amazing son, A great companion. A God-fearing man who loved his family.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the celebration of life services which will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church located at 1419 Fourth Street, Westwego, LA 70094. The visitation will begin at 9 a.m., and the service will begin at 10 a.m. Pastor Woodrow Hayden officiating and interment will follow at Restlawn Cemetery in Avondale, LA.
Due to Covid - 19, facemasks are encouraged.
Funeral planning entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home 9611 LA - 23, Belle Chasse, LA 70037 (504) 208 - 2119.
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