Herbert Morris Gabriel

Herbert "Gabe", "Skip", Morris Gabriel was a caring brother, father and friend. A dedicate & gifted musician that left this world on March 13, 2021. He was preceded in death by his mother and father; Joan & Renzie Lee Shelton Sr, sister Maria Gabriel, and brother Renzie Shelton Jr. Skip accepted the Lord at an early age when he was baptized by his dad in the name of Jesus Christ at the Pentecostal Church of God of Toledo, Ohio. His lifetime membership was at the City of Refuge Ministries, under the leadership of Elder Frank J. Simmons Jr, where he was a faithful musician. Which was such a great honor for him. His mom brought his first drum set at the age of 12, for a talent show. That's when the love affair with music began. Drums were not allowed in the P.C.G., after rededicating his life, Gabe was chosen to be the drummer at the City of Refuge and he was so elated, ecstatic to offer praise unto God. Although he also lent his gift to other ministries, this one was special for him. Because it was beginnings, where his family was.

In Highschool, skip joined the Toledo Scott Bulldogs marching band under the direction of Florida A&M Gus Walker in which he had the privilege to travel all over the country. Gabe's passion for his craft allowed him to write music gospel and blues. He wrote the Jingles for the Peacock Lounge and WKLR. Gabe played in several bands throughout Toledo and traveled through the Midwest as well. His range in vocals scale from baritone to soprano was amazing. Scat like Ella, run/rip like Stevie. Gabe's harmonic ear was remarkable. He would work with his younger sibling blending their younger voices until they had perfect pitch (Yes, he was the Joe Jackson for the Sheltons).

Gabe's music was influenced by George Benson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Lou Rawls, and Soul Children.

Skip created his recording studio in his home and any given Friday nightlife and in Living color, Band rehearsal turns into a jam session Party!!

Gabe was committed to every band he played with, he was a member of the Glass City Disciples of Toledo Union 70-1. He was NOT a drummer, he was a percussionist and he was very adamant about it!! He wouldn't hesitate to correct you.

Here are few tips you might have not known: Gabe was a Master Chess Player; He was the Orville Redenbacher Popcorn Popper ; Master Chef of Kool-Aid Maker; His nick-name was the Foot because he had the fastest foot in the Midwest when playing the kick drum; He had a brown belt in Karate, He enjoyed scary movies

"Gabe" "Skip" "Herbie" will be missed but not forgotten. He leaves to cheerish his memories: His companion and friend; Tracy Hudson. His Children; Maurice (Erica) Wormely, Darren Warner, Michael Warner, Danielle (Anthony) Boone. Siblings: James(Shelia) Watson, Karen Gabriel, Tinora Shelton, Marshelle Shelton-Sights, Arnetta Parker, David (Ivy) Shelton. Grand Children: Xavier Warner, Aislin Hudson, Elizabeth Wormley, Tyler Pullium, Donvan Wormely, Karsyn Johnson, Andria Wormely. Brothers from Another Mother: John Shelton, Melvin Johnson, Jemery Dowell, Earnest (Doc) Bell, Dale Flute, Harold Liggins.

The family will receive guests Sunday, March 21, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Newcomer SW Chapel, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd. Toledo (419-381-1900). Memorial Services will be private.

To leave a special message for Gabe's family please click on the Share Memories tab above.