Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

Louis Gilbreath

Louis Gilbreath has provided countless hours of service to the Florida 4-H program as a livestock judge, volunteer and educator. He could be called “4-H born and bred” since he participated in 4-H as a child in Texas and attended Texas A&M Universityon a 4-H scholarship. Before moving to Ocala, Gilbreath was  a county extension agent in Texas. Gilbreath was instrumental in organizing the youth livestock show that is known today as the Southeastern Regional Livestock Show. He is an excellent fund raiser in St. Johns County. He served as a judge for many 4-H activities, and has offered his expertise to coach 4-H’ers participating in livestock projects. He has served as a livestock judge and he provides leadership to livestock programs in St. Johns and Marion counties. As president of the Florida Cattleman’s Association and the State Bankers Association he has encouraged many people to support the 4-H program with time and money. He has also served on the St. Johns County 4-H Extension Advisory Committee where he helped secure financial resources and provided numerous educational citizenship programs. During his professional career Gilbreath managed the Camp Ranch on Paynes Prairie, the Norris Cattle Company, served as president of the St. Augustine Rotary Club, and provided leadership to the international student exchange program. He has served on the Florida 4-H Foundation Board of Directors and is an Honorary Member of the Board. Lewis was a recipient of the “National 4-H Alumni Award.”