On September 6, 2026, the world got a little quieter when James E Gilbert Jr. moved on to his final reward. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and mentor, he leaves behind a legacy that may never be fully known but will certainly be seen in the lives of those who knew him.
Born April 18, 1930, in Hawkinsville, GA, James was the youngest of ten children born to James E and Rachel Allen Gilbert. Raised by extended family after his mother’s passing, he often spoke fondly of growing up in the family run restaurant. Feeling the pull to service, James joined the Navy at the end of World War II. Following his service he found his way to Ozark, Al where he met the love of his life, Elizabeth Bracewell in 1948. They were married in 1949 and spent 57 wonderful years together, living primarily in Montgomery, AL where they raised their 5 children.
After attending Moody Bible College, James was ordained as a pastor. He served in rural churches in Alabama and Georgia through most of his life, also moving to Burlington, Iowa to help grow a small church. When he was not actively pastoring a church, he ensured that his family was involved in a local church community. Additionally, he felt called to other forms of service including the Optimist Club and coaching little league sports. Following the death of his wife Elizabeth, James embraced a variety of community groups in and around Roswell, GA. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Roswell, where he met and married his wife Marion. They spent her remaining years travelling and enjoying time with family and friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents James and Rachel, all of his siblings, his wives Elizabeth and Marion, his son Eddie, and his grandson Bert. He is survived by his remaining children – Debbie (Tommy) Paulk, Wanda (Jim) Hammonds, Rick (Margo) Gilbert, and Ray (Melissa) Gilbert – as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11:30am at Roswell Funeral Home at 950 Mansell Rd., Roswell, Georgia. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. James will be laid to rest with military honors on Monday, September 21, 2026 at 10:00am at Georgia National Cemetery.
In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to First Baptist Roswell Senior Adult Ministries at 710 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell, Georgia 30075, https://fbroswell.org/
