92-Year-Old Brings Joy to Chick-fil-A Customers and Staff
July 17, 2026
Gilbert Martin, affectionately known as Mr. Gil, continues to work at 92, making a positive impact at the Chick-fil-A on Oleander Drive in Wilmington, North Carolina. Despite his age, he is a cherished presence in the restaurant, known for his warm smile and genuine kindness.
Mr. Gil / WRAL
For six years, Mr. Gil has been greeting customers, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring the dining room is well-stocked. His true passion, however, lies in caring for others. “The main thing is that I take care of people out here first,” he stated.
Owner and operator Mike Perdue praised Mr. Gil for his positive influence. “He brings joy to our team members and guests through his genuine warmth, work ethic, and servant heart,” Perdue remarked. “We’re honored to have him as part of our restaurant family.”
Before joining Chick-fil-A, Martin worked in the natural gas industry and later as a greeter at Sam’s Club until that role was discontinued. “After about two months, I was bored, so I put an application in,” Martin recalled. Now, he enjoys his weekday shifts at Chick-fil-A.
His view on work is simple: “If you enjoy what you’re doing, it’s not work,” he explained. “I don’t know what 92 is supposed to be, but I feel great.”
Martin uses his role to uplift those facing tough times. “I get a lot of people that are coming in just going to the doctor or just been to the doctor and got bad news, and so forth, and I’m able to be an encourager. The Lord gave me that,” he said.
Mr. Gil emphasizes that his mission at Chick-fil-A is more about serving people than food. “Working at Chick-fil-A Oleander over the past six years has allowed me to meet so many wonderful guests and team members, and those relationships have become such a special part of my life,” Mr. Gil shared. “Serving others has always brought me joy because I believe that a smile and a kind word can make someone’s day a little brighter.”
His absence is felt when he misses a shift, as customers frequently inquire about his well-being. Perdue noted, “We’ve known all along that his kindness leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets.”
Mr. Gil has no intentions of retiring soon. “I don’t plan to go anywhere else,” he stated. He hopes his story encourages others to continue pursuing what they love, regardless of age. “I hope my story reminds others that it’s never too late to keep doing what you love,” he emphasized.
