Gilbert Arnold Covington Sr.

The family moved to Indianapolis, Indiana in 1957. Gilbert later attended Emanual Haugh School 52 and graduated from George Washington High School in 1970. Growing up in Haughville, Gilbert was a member of the 7-11 Club, where they specialized in taking bike parts and making their own bikes. He also enjoyed boxing and playing basketball at the Christamore House Community Center. As a teenager, he played baseball in the (P.A.L.) Police Athletic League.

In 1971, Gilbert enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, on the "Buddy System with Emanuel Wright, Bobby Cotton, and Anthony Lewis. During his tenure, he was blessed to be able to travel to San Diego, California, Los Angeles, California, Wake Islands, Hawaii, Okinawa Island, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines Islands, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, India, and Pakistan.

While serving in the Military, Gilbert came home on "Leave" from the Marines and met his "Soul Mate" and the "Love of his life", Donna Taylor. They eventually got married and were inseparable until his death. Together for 52 years, when you saw one, you saw the other. They were truly a model for marriage. They not only were in love, but they truly loved each other. From their love, five children were born. Gilbert, Donnisha, Tonnisha, Aline, and Vanessa.

Gilbert began his career at the U.S. Post Office in 1973 as a Letter Carrier. He served faithfully for 43 years and retired on June 29, 2016. He was awarded the 50-year service pin in 2019 and the 55-year service pin in 2024. He enjoyed the camaraderie and friendship of those whom he worked with.

In 2002, Gilbert became a beloved member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. He served faithfully in the Welcome Ministry and Security Ministry and always lent a helping hand wherever needed.

Gilbert was known for his wisdom, and people often sought his advice and thoughtful words. His calm demeanor and insight were a source of strength for many. He loved sports—especially softball, tennis, football, and basketball—and was also an avid fisherman who found peace by the water. He was always ready with a joke, a laugh, and a playful spirit that brought joy to everyone around him.

Though he often joked that he couldn’t sing or dance, that never stopped him from getting on the dance floor with his signature moves. He entertained his family with dances he called “The Four Corners” and “The Mashed Potatoes,” always followed by laughter and applause.

Gilbert cherished traditional family gatherings and loved hosting them. He was not only a phenomenal grillmaster—considered one of the best in Indianapolis—but also famous for frying fish and bringing the family together in joy and unity. For years, he and Donna would partner together and fry the fish for our yearly January 1st family gathering.

On Monday, May 12, 2025, Gilbert peacefully departed this life at home, surrounded by unconditional love. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Arnold Davis and Aline Scott Covington; his grandmother, Essie Giles; and his brothers, John “Punch” Covington, Jr., and George Hill Sr.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Donna Covington; his children, Gilbert Jr., Donnisha, Tonnisha, Aline (David), and Vanessa; two brothers, Donald Covington Sr., Ronald Covington Sr. (Kim) and sister in-law Mable Covington; ten grandchildren, Laron, Alea, Laryha, Chyna, Gavin, Gyan, Grayson, Deja, Zarriah, and Micah; six great-grandchildren, Laron Jr. (Monk), Lennox, Malea, Amora, Cedric Jr. (CJ), and Dalia.

Gilbert will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him—his family, friends, and his cherished church family at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. His laughter, wisdom, and unwavering love will live on in our hearts forever.

A visitation for Gilbert will be held Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, 1301 N Goodlet Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46222, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 PM.