Robert Lee Gilbert, Jr. of Columbus, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 at the age of 97. He was born in Columbus, Georgia to the late Gertie Mae Hart Gilbert and Robert Lee Gilbert, Sr. Mr. Gilbert was a Baker High School graduate. He served his country in the United States Navy as Petty Officer during the Korean War. Mr. Gilbert was stationed on aircraft carriers with some of his stations being in Hawaii, San Francisco, and in Guam. He was married to the love of his life, Oma Aline Gilbert for 71 years. Together they made Columbus their home. Mr. Gilbert worked as store manager at Colonial Stores.
Mr. Gilbert was Christian by faith, and he lived by serving others. He was a member of Rose Hill United Methodist Church of Columbus for over 40 years. Mr. Gilbert had a passion for serving and helping those in need. He served his community on many levels. Mr. Gilbert and his wife volunteered in their church and with Brown Bag of Columbus. Many awards for their time and dedication to their service to their community were given on the local and national levels.
Robert loved his family; he was a devoted husband and father. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He had a passion for training bird dogs. While in high school, Robert played football and baseball. This led him to coaching youth sports, he especially loved coaching baseball. Robert was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves and Auburn Football. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends at their lake house on Lake Harding.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Oma; his parents Gertie and Robert Gilbert, Sr.; and his Sister, Bettie Gilbert Davis. Mr. Gilbert leaves his loving memory to be cherished by his son, Jeff Gilbert.
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025 from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. Funeral service will follow the visitation with Rev. Andy Ginn officiating. Burial will be in Parkhill Cemetery on Monday, November 10, 2025.
Flowers are accepted, if one wishes to make a memorial donation, please make it to Brown Bag of Columbus, brownbagofcolumbus.com
