Born April 9, 1929 in Buena Vista, he was the son of the late Charlie T. and Mary Louise (Wilmer) Gilbert.
Lewis was a graduate of Parry McCluer High School in Buena Vista. He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran having served his country honorably during the Korean War. Prior to retirement, he was employed by Sperry Marine where he worked as an electronic technician for 30 years. He was a member of West Waynesboro Church of Christ and previously of Cherry Avenue Christian Church. Lewis was a founding member of the Seminole Trail Fire Department. He was a talented musician that enjoyed playing bluegrass and bluegrass gospel music with several local bands that traveled to different churches and nursing homes.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis S. Gilbert; and brother, James Gilbert.
Survivors include his three children, Karen Ellis and husband, Donald of Daphne, AL, Gregory Gilbert and wife, Bobbie of Waynesboro and Mary Jo Gilbert of Waynesboro; three grandchildren, Charlie Gilbert, Marie Gilbert, and Brooks Ellis; sister, Thelma “Boots” Williams and husband, Ronnie of Concord, NC; and many loving nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at West Waynesboro Church of Christ, 2212 Cortland St., Waynesboro.
Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the church with Chad Grondin officiating. Burial will be private.
The family would like to give a special heartfelt thank you to the UVA Cancer Center Augusta Clinic, Dr. Nicholas Paphitis, and the staff of Royal Care for their love and care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the UVA Hope Cancer Center Augusta Clinic, 57 Beam Lane, Suite 300, Fishersville, VA 22939 or West Waynesboro Church of Christ, c/o Food Pantry, 2212 Cortland St., Waynesboro, VA 22980.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes of Waynesboro.
Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com
