Wanchese Community Remembers a Local Legend: Gilbert R. “Moon” Tillett
In a touching farewell, the town of Wanchese has come together to honor the life of a true local icon, Gilbert R. “Moon” Tillett, who crossed the bar for the final time on January 21, 2024. Born on December 17, 1929, Moon was a beloved figure known not only for his unforgettable name but also for the incredible legacy he built across the waters of the Outer Banks.
A Life of Passion and Love
Raised in the close-knit community of Wanchese by his late parents, Leslie R. “Billie” Tillett and Lennie Basnight Tillett, Moon’s childhood fascination with the moon sparked a lifelong curiosity. It was said that as a young boy, he would often gaze up at the night sky, talking to the moon as if it were an old friend. This endearing trait of his only added to his charm.
Moon’s journey through life was marked by deep love and strong family ties. He was married to his first wife, Linda Tillett, for 49 years before she passed away in 1998. In 2003, he found love again with Jean Curles Tillett, who stood by his side and was instrumental in his health and care during his later years. Moon is survived by his loving wife, Jean, three sons, a daughter, and a bright bunch of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, totaling an impressive family tree filled with love.
Charting New Waters
Moon wasn’t just a family man; he was also a pioneering figure in the charter fishing industry. He was one of the original charter boat captains who helped shape what charter fishing is today in the Outer Banks. After a successful stint in fishing, he bought his first trawler, the Captain John Duke, in 1965, which marked the beginning of a remarkable commercial fishing career stretching from the waters of Massachusetts to Georgia.
In 1975, Moon acquired another trawler named Linda Gayle, and by 1977, he established the Moon Tillett Fish Company, which became well-known for selling seafood around the world. His passion for fishing didn’t stop there; in 1979, he added yet another trawler, the Gallant Fox, to his growing fleet.
A Voice for the Community
Beyond his fishing adventures, Moon was also a dedicated advocate for the stabilization of Oregon Inlet. He worked tirelessly alongside others in the community to promote this vital cause, showing just how much he cared for the waters that had given him so much over the years.
In recognition of his contributions to the community and fishing industry, Moon received the prestigious Living Legend Award in 2012. And as if that wasn’t enough, he was honored with a 50-year pin in 2023 for his unwavering support of Manteo Lodge #521 A.F. & A.M., where he made lasting friendships.
Celebrating His Life
The Wanchese community is invited to pay their respects at a visitation scheduled for 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Twiford Colony Chapel in Manteo. A funeral service will take place at 2:00 pm on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at Bethany Church of Wanchese, officiated by pastors Kenny Midgett and Jerald Craddock. Following the service, a graveside committal will be held in the Tillett Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to both the Dare County Shrine Club and Bethany Church of Wanchese, as a way to celebrate Moon’s dedication to family and community. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will continue to float on the waters he loved so much.
As the community gathers to remember Moon Tillett, they also celebrate the endless memories of laughter, stories, and love that he shared with everyone around him.
