Zebadiah Don Philbert

It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Zebadiah Don Cephas Philbert, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, brother, friend, colleague, and community member.

After a heroic battle against cancer, the brightest light in our family’s lives - Zebadiah - passed away. Zeb was optimistic in the face of adversity and there was always something worth living for. He approached his battle with cancer much the same way. Despite the gravity of his illness he remained optimistic and strong.

Born on December 30, 1971, in St. George’s, Grenada, Zebadiah immigrated to Canada with his family at the age of three. He was raised in Guelph, Ontario, a city he proudly called home for the rest of his life. A lifelong Guelphite, Zebadiah built deep roots in the community and formed lasting friendships wherever life took him.

Zebadiah was the devoted husband of Christine and the proud father of Lincoln and Eleanor, who were the greatest joys of his life and the center of his world. He was the beloved son of Hardley and Carmen Philbert.

He is lovingly remembered by his siblings: Rennie (Edris), Isa (Peter), Patricia (John), Kisandra (Bruce), and Celia as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, neighbors, and colleagues.

Throughout his career with Sleeman Breweries and the Upper Grand District School Board, Zebadiah earned the respect and admiration of those around him. He was known for his dedication, strong work ethic, reliability, and ability to build meaningful relationships. Many coworkers became lifelong friends, a testament to the kindness and authenticity he brought to every interaction.

Family was always at the heart of everything Zebadiah did. He treasured playing video games with Lincoln, cooking alongside Eleanor, and spending weekends thrifting with Christine and the kids in search of hidden treasures. He was a familiar and welcome face on school field trips, proudly volunteering as a parent chaperone and creating lasting memories with his children and their classmates.

An avid sports fan, Zebadiah faithfully cheered for the LA Dodgers and the Kansas City Chiefs. He loved gathering family and friends around the barbecue, where his generosity, laughter, and love of good food brought people together. Whether watching a game, enjoying a family outing, or sharing stories with friends, Zebadiah found joy in life’s simple moments and in the people he loved most.

Those who knew Zebadiah will remember his unmistakable sense of style. He carried himself with confidence, class, and warmth, always looking sharp in his signature preppy attire. His beautifully maintained locks were a reflection of the pride he took in his appearance and became one of the many things people fondly associated with him.

Perhaps most of all, Zebadiah will be remembered for his generous heart and willingness to help others. If someone needed a hand, Zebadiah was often the first to show up and the last to leave. He never needed to be asked twice. His kindness, dependability, and selflessness touched countless lives and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy of love, strength, laughter, service, and devotion will live on through his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered.

Friends will be received on Monday, July 20 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St. Guelph. A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, July 21 at 12:00 pm in the chapel of the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, with a private interment to follow. Reception 2:00 pm July 21, Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Fellowship Lounge, 1099 Gordon St.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Nightingale Centre in memory of Zebadiah would be appreciated by the family.