Gilbert Villafano, Jr. (Gil James) was born November 30, 1952 and passed away suddenly and peacefully May 11, 2010. At the time of passing Gil was doing what he loved best, writing and playing music in his own home. He began playing professionally at the age of twelve and played until his death. He retired from AT&T at the age of 50 with 30 years of service as a service representative. Recently he was playing at Taco Rey in Nederland, where he felt at home.

Gil is survived by his mother, Petra Moreno Villafano; his father, Gilbert Villafano, Jr., and his brothers, Joe Contheras and Michael Villafano both of Austin. He leaves behind his lifetime soulmate, his bestfriend and the love of his life his wife Nora. He is also survived by his beloved family, his sons Brandon, and wife Brooke of Beaumont, his son Cory of Port Neches, his step daughter, Brandy Copley and husband Henry Gallagher of Pearland, and Shannon Copley of Port Neches. His pride and joy are his two grandsons, Triston Copley Gallagher and Brayden Kai Villafano. Gil also has a host of family and friends he is survived by.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 15, 2010 at Broussard’s Chapel Nederland with Pastor Curtis Alexander officiating, assisted by Reverend Raymond McHenry.  Interment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches. A gathering of family and friends will be 5:00-8:00 PM, Friday at Broussard’s.