Gilbert Lee Porter

Gilbert Lee Porter of Sandy Spring, Maryland departed this earthly world on May 30th, 2021. He was born on February 22, 1939, in Washington, DC to Gilbert L. Porter Sr. and Kathryn Lusby. Gil was a father to two children, Craig Porter (Heather) and Suzanne Weiss (Charlie). Gil was proud of his four grandchildren Robert Porter (Sara), Molly Weiss, Jacob Weiss, and Amy Weiss. He was blessed with great grandchildren as well, Augustus “Gus” Porter and Giovanna Giampetroni. Gil began his professional career in drywall, then went on to become a builder/contractor in the Silver Spring area. Many of the housing developments around Cloverly, Sandy Spring, and Silver Spring/Spencerville boast his custom touches in the sections that he built. After attending the 1963 Washington International Horse Show in DC, Gil was impressed by the cutting of horseman Sonny Perry and took up the sport. In addition to several wins in the novice and non-pro cutting competitions, his horses were also bred to be champions. His beloved War China and Chopsticks were winning horses that are interred on his farm, in addition to Magic Molly who still resides there. Gil was a hard-driving, taskmaster who loved to make the rules. He lived by his day planner and once you were in it, you better be ready. He made time regularly to dine out with high school friends who stuck by him for over 60 years. Nearly everyone that met him has a “Gil story” they can tell, many of which clearly define his hard nature, sense of humor, or love of horses. When he wasn’t riding or driving around supervising, Gil was eager to spend time with his family and friends. He loved dining out and knew the best places for salmon, steaks and the like…and where to grab a quick McMuffin for him and his beloved dog Scooter. After his stroke, we sometimes saw a kindler, gentler Gil, but he never let anyone forget who was the boss. He challenged his caregivers, got kicked out of a facility or two, and demanded satisfaction at every turn. But most of all he was a survivor. He used up his 9 lives and then some; from plane crashes, aneurysms, to being thrown by horses, to nicked lungs and blood clots and strokes and Covid…he fought to the very end, and a more determined man you are not likely to find. Imposing in both stature and personality, Gil left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Gilbert Lee Porter

February 22, 1939 - May 30, 2021