Ernest Laban Gilbert

Ernest Laban Gilbert, 86 of Fort Smith passed away Sunday, January 22, 2012. He was born March 25, 1925 in Charleston to the late Laban and Beulah Gilbert. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and the American Legion. He was an Army Veteran and Prisoner of War of World War II and retired from the City of Ft. Smith. He was preceded in death by his first wife of 35 years Betty Dedmon Gilbert.

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, January 25th at Calvary Baptist Church. Military Honors and interment will follow at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Fentress Mortuary of Fort Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Martha of the home; five daughters: Susan Miller of Cleveland, TX, Kimberly Wagoner of Ft. Smith, Donna Warren of Ft. Smith, Ginny Mahan of Alma, and Becky Denton of Ft. Smith; three sons: Paul Ernest Gilbert of Danville, Paul Hamilton of Carson City, NV and Michael Hamilton of Citrus Heights, CA. He is also survived by three sisters: Florence Christian, Ruby Howard, and Maisie Little all of Ft. Smith; 19 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild as well as several nieces and nephews, and a great host of friends.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons: Christopher Gilbert, Johnathan Gilbert, Michael Miller, Chad Warren, Seth Warren, Tim Morphew, David Randolph, Dennis Powers, and Driller Powers.

Memorials may be sent to Calvary Baptist Church 2301 Midland Blvd. Ft. Smith, AR 72904.

Family will receive visitors 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Tuesday, January 24th at the funeral home.