Dwayne Gilder

Tuesday, February 27, 1945 – Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Dwayne Gilder, age 80, a beacon of strength to his family, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, at Community Hospice in Vidalia, Georgia. Born on February 27, 1945, in Alamo, Georgia, to the late Thadys Walker Gilder and Ernestine Holmes Gilder, Dwayne's life was a testament to the enduring power of dedication and love.

He was a loving husband to his wife, Gail Gilder, and a loving father to his children, Ronda Ireland (Phil) of Jacksonville, Florida, and Robert Gilder, Jr. of Alamo. His wisdom and warmth were a beacon for his grandchildren, Kristan Westmoreland (Justin) of Jacksonville, Florida, Rebecca Vien of Jacksonville, Florida, and Dalton Gilder of Chesapeake, Virginia. The joy of his life was further multiplied by his great-grandchildren, Cooper Vien, Elizabeth Vien, Addalynn Westmoreland, and Austin Westmoreland, who will carry his legacy forward.

Dwayne's brother, Gary Gilder (Dottie) of Islandton, South Carolina, will fondly remember the bond they shared, filled with laughter and camaraderie. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.  The Gilder family, a close-knit unit, will forever cherish the memories of Dwayne's unwavering support and unconditional love.

Professionally, Dwayne was respected and admired as a skilled boilermaker and welder with Union Local 199. His dedication to his craft was evident in the meticulous work he produced. Dwayne's colleagues knew him as a man of integrity and a reliable friend.

Beyond his work, Dwayne had a passion for woodworking and hunting, hobbies that reflected his love for nature and his talent for creating. He was a 32nd degree Mason with Riverview Lodge and also a member of the Morocco Shrine, both in Jacksonville, Florida.

Funeral Services will be held at the Chapel of Lowes Funeral Home on Sunday, July 27 at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Curtis Wells officiating. Interment will follow at Snow Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 P.M. – 2 P.M.

As we bid farewell to Dwayne Gilder, we celebrate a life well-lived, and a love that will continue to inspire for generations to come. His memory will be treasured, his stories retold, and his impact felt forever. Rest in peace, Dwayne; your life was a beautiful story of love and legacy.

You may express your condolences online at lowesfuneralhome.net.

Lowes Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.