As the news has by now spread, Gilbert Henry Stafford, a legendary door person in the US club scene has passed away. The number of heartfelt eulogies shows that this man represented something way beyond normal night life that we are all familiar with.
You can read Steve Lewis’ full eulogy here. Or visit the Facebook group to pay your respects here.
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BEN COOPER STEVENS:
I am one of Gil’s oldest friends. We went to high school together 40+ yers ago. My introduction to Gilbert was actually in class the 1st week of high school. Our high school was 45%Jewish/45%Black/10% mixed. After class he came up to me and said “check out what someone wrote in black magic marker on the back of your nice khaki Jacket. I took the jacket off to discover that someone, probably
the guy sitting behind me, wrote his Fraternity letters largely on my sport coat.
Gilbert immediately showed the teacher and then insisted we go the the principal
to report the guy we suspected. I was embarassed and afraid that my parents would freak if they saw it. The Principal immediately sent for the guy, who finally apoligized, and gave me $100 for a new jacket. That was just Gilbert.
He always was true to his beliefs and himself. It is a quality that is hard to find in people. Most people would rather blend with everyone else. In a time when it was almost dangerous to be flamboyant, loud, and dramatic, Gilbert always followed his heart-NOT the crowd. I know he will be waiting for me with open arms when I arrive at the entrance to the pearly gates at club HEAVEN. hE will put his arm around my shoulders, and be wearing a white Armani w/tails, hand me his Scotch and say “DAHHHLING, what took you so long! Have I got stories for you!”. Goodbye for now my dear friend and brother. I know you are already watching over me.
Bora:
What a story. Thank you for sharing Ben…