Tony Leigh Gilchrist

Tony L. Gilchrist, age 75, of Destin, Florida, passed away into the loving arms of his Savior, on Monday, April 4, 2022 at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital. Tony was born on August 24, 1946 in Andalusia, Alabama, the son of Leon G. Gilchrist and Enda Robbins Gilchrist.

He spent many of his years growing up in Dothan, Alabama, where he graduated from Dothan High School in 1964. After graduating with degrees from Troy State University, BS., accounting and MBA from University of West Florida, MBA, Wharton School of Business, MHA from Trinity University and Juris Doctorate with honors, he was an accomplished health care administrator. He had working experiences throughout the U.S. with many hospital organizations, insuring the best of healthcare, managing hospitals and improving working conditions. He rose to the level of CFO and CEO of major domestic healthcare organizations and international responsibilities in Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines. Healthcare was a passion for Tony and he enjoyed sharing many of his experiences with family and friends. 

Tony had a passion for watching "all" Alabama football with his love for Auburn and watching Alabama football with Sandra. He was a tennis player with a past college scholarship in tennis. He enjoyed watching all the races and car shows and loved sharing his memories of his Corvettes. He had a great love for cooking and sharing this love with others. Last but not least, he was a devoted Christian with a strong love for the Lord. 

Survivors include his devoted wife Sandra Gilchrist of Destin, Florida; daughter Nicole Marie Gilchrist Hagen; two stepsons John Paul Mizelle, (Lisa); David Bryant Mizelle; and granddaughters Holly Anne Mizelle, Asley Popa, Katie Herbert, and grandson Matthew Herbert. Tony was preceded in death by his parents Leon G. Gilchrist and Enda Robbins Gilchrist and his brother Keith Alan Gilchrist. 

A private graveside service was held at Heritage Gardens Funeral Home and Cemetery on April 7, 2022. His memory will live on forever.

Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in Tony's name.

Expressions of love and sympathy may be placed and viewed at heritagegardensfuneralhome.com

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