Gerry Lee Gilbert

Gerry Lee Gilbert of Tampa, FL passed away on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the age of 92. Gerry was born in New Bern, NC on January 25, 1933, to Grady Lee and Wilhelmenia Gilbert. He grew up and attended school in Concord, NC where he met Joyce Colleen Whitley, the woman he would marry and share 75 years with.

In 1951, Gerry and Colleen moved to Baltimore, MD where he worked for the Glenn L. Martin aircraft company building B-57 Canberra bombers. He then joined the U.S. Air Force where he was stationed in many parts of the world including Africa, England, Thailand and different bases throughout the US. During this time, Gerry received multiple commendation awards, and retired after serving for 20 years. He then joined Morrison’s Cafeterias in their transportation department where he was the supervisor of drivers for 20 years. After retirement, Gerry and Colleen lived in Hernando Beach and Homossassa, FL before eventually moving back to Tampa in 2018. Through every move and every new assignment, he was known for his strong work ethic, his loyalty to the people around him and was the kind of man who made friends wherever he went, many of them stayed in his life for decades.

Gerry was a lifelong member of the VFW, the American Legion and a loyal member of the Free Masons for over 66 years. He enjoyed boating, fishing and attending NASCAR races and was always ready with a story, a smile, and a good-natured joke. Most of all, he treasured time with his family and friends, and made everyone around him feel welcome.

Gerry was preceded in death by his wife Joyce, and his father and mother. He is survived by his sons; Gerry Gilbert II (Linda), Grady Gilbert (Holly), Grandchildren; Andrea Drakeford, Jarod Gilbert, Shawn Gilbert, Amber Gilbert, Grady Gilbert, and Great-Grandchildren; Kennedy Ann Gilbert, Branson Drakeford and Cali Drakeford.

Gerry and Colleen’s 75 years of marriage were a testament to his devotion, patience, and love. He will be remembered as a dedicated husband, a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a generous friend whose warmth and good humor touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

A Shelter Service will be held at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513, US, on October 20, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.