Gilbert Feijo

Gilbert Feijo

It is with profound sorrow and love that the family of Gilbert Feijo announce his peaceful passing on April 27, 2023, at the age of 51. 

Gilbert was born September 15, 1971, to Ernesto and Aida Feijo in Newark, New Jersey. Gilbert was raised in Newark in a loving, God-fearing Catholic family. Growing up the youngest of seven, his parents instilled in him and his siblings the importance of family. 

In 1992 Gilbert met and fell in love with Laurie Teixeira. Gilbert's one and only son Matthew Feijo was born from this relationship. Becoming a new father and co-parenting with Laurie brought Gilbert so much joy. Gilbert loved Matthew with all his heart, and Gilbert cherished Laurie for being the dedicated, loving mother she is.

Gilbert, affectionately known as “Uncle Gil,” adored his nieces and nephews. Uncle Gil was an integral part of each of their lives. There was nothing in the world he wouldn’t do for them. He was their supporter, protector, and most importantly, their friend. Uncle Gil’s heart grew even bigger when the great nieces and nephews came, and his protective instincts sharpened. Each of them knew without a doubt that no matter what, Uncle Gil had their back. 

The sibling bond between Gilbert and Rosa was powerful and grew stronger each year. Rosa's home in Carteret, where Gilbert resided, was filled with laughter, love, beautiful moments, and memories. 

Gilbert worked various jobs throughout his adult life. His last position, the one he was most proud of, was as an Assistant Director for Hoger Crea. This position afforded Gilbert the opportunity to support others through counseling and providing resources to individuals who, like himself, had overcome difficult obstacles in life. Gilbert’s compassion for others was clearly evident as he worked in this capacity.

Like every best-selling novel, Gilbert’s life was filled with interesting, spell bounding, and breathtaking chapters. We, as a family, rejoice and take comfort in knowing that the next to the last chapter of his life was filled with nothing but non-stop, quality time with family. The last few weeks of his life Gilbert over-extended himself daily for everyone he came in contact with. “I got that…” “Let me do it…”. Sure, no problem, give it to me…” These were the phases he used daily with his beloved family members.

On Easter Sunday, April 9th, as the family gathered around the dining room table, Gilbert said, “I’ll pray!”  The family stood, hearts cleared, hand in hand, eyes closed, heads bowed; Gilbert boldly gave honor to God and covered the family in prayer. Five days later, Friday, April 14th, standing around that very same dining room table where he boldly prayed to our Lord and Savior, Gilbert's epilogue began. At that moment, the tables turned, and we, as a family, began to pray for him.

An epilogue is the final chapter in a novel that reveals the fate of a character. The family's revelation for Gilbert is based upon Romans 10:13, which clearly states, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Gilbert loved God. Gilbert loved his family. Gilbert called upon the name of the Lord. Grace and peace shall be upon Gilbert as he takes his well-deserved rest. We love you, and we will surely miss you. However, we know in our hearts that it's not a goodbye; it's a see you later. Sleep in peace Gilbert.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, Ernesto and Aida Feijo.  Gilbert leaves to celebrate his life and mourn his passing son, Matthew Feijo: granddaughter, Isabella Rose Feijo: siblings, Dominic Feijo (Helen), Maria Alice Torres (Antonio), John Feijo (Maria DeJesus) Palmira Martins (Miro), Joseph Feijo (Holly), Rosa Mendez (Victor), and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, friends and special friend, Laurie Teixeira.

Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing for Gilbert on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Galante Funeral Home, 2800 Morris Ave. Union, NJ 07083. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church, 403 Spring St., Elizabeth, NJ 07201. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Gilbert Feijo to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/