Born on April 11, 1943, in Greenville, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Freddie and Floyd Whaley. Gilbert lived life at full throttle. He cherished the open road on his beloved Harley, where the rumble of the engine and the wind in his face brought him pure joy. When he wasn't on two wheels he enjoyed making home improvements and working in his yard. Above all, Gilbert was a loving father who enjoyed having adventures with his children.
In addition to his parents, Gilbert was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Whaley, and his siblings, Elizabeth, Jake, Frank, Claude Sr., and Ralph Sr.
He is survived by his son Ricky Whaley (Karen), daughter Lynn Simmons (Tim), and granddaughter Amber Smith (Jared).
A graveside service for Gilbert will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 2:00 pm in Woodlawn Memorial Park's Remembrance Mausoleum Chapel, 1901 Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC 29609.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gilbert's honor may be made to McCall Hospice House, 1836 W Georgia Rd, Simpsonville, SC 29681.
