Eddie Lee Gilbert

Eddie Lee Gilbert, 77, of Swansea, IL passed away Friday, February 21, 2025. He was born on December 27, 1947 in East St. Louis, IL to Charley and Mary Belle (Pitcock) Gilbert. Eddie was drafted into the Army on July 7, 1967 in Fort Leonard Wood, MO until September where he was stationed in Fort Benning, GA. He learned Field Radio Mechanics and in December of 1967 he flew out from Fort Dix, NJ to Vietnam to serve his country. Eddie was honorably discharged in February of 1969. He married the love of his life, Sara Ann Giacalone, on May 15, 1971 in Washington Park, IL. Eddie was a devoted husband and supportive father who built a life filled with laughter and love. One of his greatest joys in life was being a grandfather. Eddie was a man of strong faith and was a member of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Surviving to cherish his memory includes his loving wife of 53 years, Sara Gilbert; daughter, Kim Carr; son, John (Paula) Gilbert; grandchildren, Benny and Addy; brother, Charles (Karen) Gilbert; brothers-in-law, Nick (Peggy) Giacalone and Anthony “AJ” (Terri) Giacalone; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family and close friends. Eddie was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Clara (Robert) Franks; brother, John “Sam” Gilbert; mother and father-in-law, John and Rosemary Giacalone and sister-in-law, Dorothea Hamer.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, March 8, 2025 in St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 1910 W. Belle St., Belleville, IL 62226 with Father William McGhee officiating. A visitation will begin at 9:00am until time of service. Memorial contributions can be made to Autism Speaks.