Obituary of Gilbert Lowell Vining
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gilbert L. Vining, affectionately known as Gil, a man whose life was a testament to faith, love, and service.
Gil entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 5, 2025 . Born on January 10, 1934, in the peaceful village of Hensonville, NY, to his loving parents, Leonard J. Vining and Louise Chatfield, Gil's journey through life touched countless hearts. Raised in the nurturing community of Maplecrest, NY.
Gil's pursuit of knowledge led him to Roberts Wesleyan College, where destiny intervened, and he met his beloved Roberta Daugherty. Their sixty-year marriage was a beautiful example of devotion and partnership. Later, he earned his Master's Degree in Business Administration from Bloomsburg University, a testament to his commitment to learning and growth. Gil dedicated his life to sharing his knowledge, first as a business educator at Windham-Ashland-Jewett Central School and Cairo-Durham Central School.
Later, he transitioned to roles that showcased his practical skills, working as a service manager for Stewarts GMC, and embracing his entrepreneurial spirit as a farmer, landlord, and self-proclaimed used car salesman.
His zest for life extended to hobbies such as hunting, scouring auctions for cars and cattle, and generously assisting in homeschooling his great-grandchildren.
A pillar of the Mitchell Hollow Mission Church, Gil served as an elder and was deeply involved in its community. More than any accomplishment, Gil's life was a living embodiment of God's faithfulness, a legacy he has instilled in his cherished children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his sons, Rev. Gilbert (Dawn) Vining, Rev. Ronald (Leann) Vining, and his daughter, Ruth (Dennis) Welch. He leaves behind a legacy of love in his nine grandchildren and twenty-seven great-grandchildren, all of whom will profoundly miss his warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love. Gil also leaves behind two brothers Wesley and Lemuel Vining.
A Celebration Service of Gil's life will be held at Mitchell Hollow Mission Church on Wednesday, June 11th, at 6:30 pm, offering an opportunity for friends and family to gather, remember, and share the joy that Gil brought into their lives. Light refreshments will follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider making a charitable donation in Gil's memory to either Mitchell Hollow Mission Church, located at 893 Mill St., Windham, NY 12496, or to Polestar Outdoors, a ministry dedicated to providing youth with invaluable outdoor education and safety, P.O. Box 2373, Cody, WY 82414. These gestures will honor Gil's commitment to his faith and his passion for nurturing the next generation. He will be dearly missed, but his spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all who knew and loved him.
Care has been entrusted to Decker Funeral Home, online condolences may be made at www.deckerfh.com