Willa Dean Gilbert, age 80, was born on March 16, 1945 in Putney, Ky. Willa Dean was a long time resident of New Tazewell, Tennessee at Cape Norris where she really enjoyed her view of the lake. She passed to her Heavenly home on January 13, 2026 at the Claiborne Medical Center. She was a member of Dogwood Heights Baptist Church. Willa was lovingly known as the Angel lady because she crocheted thousands of angels that were given out at hospitals, nursing homes, Military soldiers overseas and anyone who needed one. She enjoyed riding Harleys with her loving husband Brad and all of the many trips they took together. She also enjoyed her Sunday dress as much as she did her leathers. She enjoyed spending time gardening on her farm and also planning big Christmas and spending them with her sweet family.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years John Bradley Gilbert, father Elbert Ford, mother Lillian Richmond Ford, brother Elbert Alvin Ford, sister Pauline Ford, great-grandchild Melinda Rose.
Willa Dean Gilbert is survived by her sister Evyleen "Eve" Zaboji. Sons Bradley (Rena) Gilbert, Michael (Nikki) Gilbert and James E. Gilbert. Daughter Deana (Steve) Cheatwood. Grandchildren Cathy Gilbert, Erika Danielle (Tim) Martin, Aaron (Ally) Garland, Emma Grace Gilbert, Gabriel Gilbert, J.C. Fields, Ryley Gilbert, and Sophie Gilbert. Great Grandchildren Willow, Shelby Mae, Colton, Ashton, Ivy, and future great grandchild Greer Addelyn. Sister-in-law Christine Hamlin Ford. Niece Diane (Gary) Harlow, nephews, Brian and Daryl Newton. Special friend Kathy Phipps. As well as a host of other family and friends.
The family would like to say a special thank you to Michael McMeel for the stuffed animals and the joy brought as well as Claiborne Hospital and Nursing Home staff for their love, care and support.
The family will receive friends on Sunday January 18, 2026 from 5 until 7 PM at Coffey Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 7 PM in the Coffey Funeral Home chapel. A graveside service will be held on Monday January 19, 2026 at 1 PM in Fairview Cemetery.
Officiating: Rev. Kenny Trent;
Singers: Living Water;
Pallbearers: Gabriel Gilbert, Aaron Garland, Steve Cheatwood, Matt Simmons, Ron Hayes, Scotty Moyers, James Catron;
Honorary Pallbearers: Todd Mallicoat and Doug Hensley
