Willie James Gilbert passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 83 on August 22, 2023.

Willie was born in Kemper County, MS on November 2, 1939, to parents Pearl and Melvin Gilbert. He was one of 9 children, 8 boys, and 1 girl, or as Willie would say "eight brothers and each one had a sister."  Willie graduated from Prattsville High School as President of his senior class.

Willie married Gaylia Ann Tucker of Prattsville, AR on September 3, 1965. He was blessed to be "Dad" or "Daddy" to two children: Randolph Joseph Gilbert (Heather) and Patricia Gayle Elkins (Douglas). He was also "Grandpa" to four grandchildren: Christopher (Caitlin); the twins, Leo and Russell; and his "little darlin'" Chloe (Cole). Chloe and Cole will share Willie and Gaylia's anniversary at their wedding next week on September 3.

Willie joined the Navy to serve his country during the Vietnam conflict. He was stationed in Kodiak, AK during the 1964 Alaska Earthquake and assisted with the rescue and relief efforts. He was also stationed in Japan (along with his brother, Hollie) during his time in service, where he climbed Mt. Fuji and enjoyed learning about Japanese culture.

Wille worked for Arkansas Power and Light for 30 years. During that time, he was involved with several disaster service efforts, including recovery during hurricane Camille in 1969, one of only four category five hurricanes to ever make landfall in the continental United States.

Willie was a little league baseball coach, and a Sunday School teacher and Superintendent. He was a member of the Arkansas Workforce Board and the Hot Springs Art Advisory Board. Willie was the President of the Gallery Guide Association for 10 years. He was the Commander of The Sons of Confederate Veterans James M. Keller camp. He was a student of American history, a gardener, a fisherman, and a hunter. Wille loved his family and learning about his ancestry and family history; he and his brothers traveled the south gathering information about their family genealogy. He enjoyed playing card games and dominoes with his grandchildren. And he loved the Arkansas Razorbacks!

If you have walked the sidewalks of downtown Hot Springs and enjoyed the greenery, benches, and light posts, thank Willie! He was the treasurer for the Hot Springs Central Business Improvement District, which was responsible for the restoration and beautification of downtown Hot Springs.  This coupled beautifully with his partnership with his wife Ann as the owners of a downtown business, the American Art Gallery.

Willie's service to his country and community was driven by his servant's heart. He never met a stranger, and always wanted to help his fellow man, especially those in need. He was kind, gentle, and a peacemaker. He was a follower of Jesus Christ.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, brothers J.W., Harvey, Melvin Jr., and Bobby, and sister Betty. He is survived by his wife Ann, his children, three brothers, Hollie, Wayne, and Carl, as well as his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. There are lots of great stories being shared in heaven today as he is reunited with his beloved family!

Funeral service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Sheridan with Bro. Gary Smith officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10:00 until service time. Burial will follow at Philadelphia Cemetery in Prattsville .