We gather here today to honor and celebrate the life of John “Larry” Gilbert, a man whose kindness, dedication, and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew him. Born on August 18, 1961, to Billy Harlan Gilbert of Centerville and Inez Palmer Gilbert (Chessor) of Coble, Larry was a man of strong character, deep faith, and boundless generosity.

Though Larry was a stepfather to Joseph Larry Gilbert of Linden, he never made such a distinction—he treated all of his children as his own, with love, guidance, and unwavering support. His role as a father was defined not by titles but by the love he gave so freely. To all who knew them, there was no question that they were his, and he was theirs. He poured his heart into his family, always ensuring that they knew they were loved and valued.

From the moment he found out he was having twin boys, Larry embraced fatherhood without hesitation. He never saw them as anything but his own, and that love remained constant throughout his life. Cory Harlan Gilbert and Cody Clark Gilbert of Centerville grew up knowing the unconditional love of a father who was always there for them. Their strength as brothers is only made stronger by this loss, bound together by the love and example he set for them. He pushed and coached them to be the best at whatever they did, instilling in them a work ethic and determination that shaped their futures. Because of his influence, all of his sons have grown into strong, successful men.

Joseph Gilbert started a family of his own and now serves the people of Tennessee as a lieutenant for the Turney Center Industrial Complex prison. Cory channeled his passion for strengthening both mind and body, earning a certification in graphic design and achieving the rank of black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Cody followed in his father’s footsteps, choosing a life of service as a police officer for the City of Centerville. Each of his sons can say with pride that their father’s love, dedication, and example of hard work shaped them into the men they are today.

Larry was also a proud grandfather to the children of Victoria Kay Gilbert—Victoria Grace Gilbert and Gunner Joseph Gilbert of Linden. His love for them was endless, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

He held a special place in his heart for Victoria Kay Gilbert, not only as the mother of his grandchildren but as someone he deeply loved for the kindness and care she always showed him. Every year on his birthday, she would bake him cupcakes, a simple but cherished tradition that he looked forward to. He always joked about how she would cook him the biggest pork chops every time he came over for dinner, laughing about how she was determined to keep him well-fed. He loved her deeply for her warmth, generosity, and the way she always made him feel welcome and cared for.

Larry also shared an unbreakable bond with his niece, Jennifer Voelz. She was the one he could call no matter what—whether in the middle of a storm or when his health was failing, she was always there for him. And in return, he was always there for her. He taught her how to drive, stood by her through life’s challenges, and was always someone she could hold onto for comfort and strength. The love they shared was more than family; it was a friendship built on trust, loyalty, and unconditional support.

Though he and the mother of his children, Vicky Gilbert, were no longer together, they remained the best of friends. Together, they raised their children with love and dedication, ensuring that they grew into strong, capable men and women. Their bond was one of deep respect and unwavering friendship, always united in their love for their family. No matter what life brought their way, they stood together as parents, celebrating their children’s successes and supporting them through every challenge.

Larry lived a life of service, dedicating himself to helping others. From working alongside his father on the hog farm to answering emergency calls as a paramedic for Hickman County EMS, he was always willing to lend a hand. His commitment to serving his community led him to work as a reserve police officer with the Centerville Police Department before becoming a 911 operator and dispatcher, where he eventually rose to the position of supervisor at the Centerville 911 Center. In each of these roles, Larry was known for his dedication, reliability, and compassion. He was someone people depended on in times of crisis, always willing to put himself on the front lines to ensure the safety and well-being of others.

Later in life, he worked as a dump truck driver for Eubanks Paving Company in Charlotte, Tennessee, and finally as a maintenance worker at Turney Center Industrial Complex. No matter where life took him, Larry approached every job with the same unwavering work ethic and sense of responsibility. He took pride in his work, always doing his best and leaving a lasting impression on those he worked alongside.

Beyond his career, Larry had many passions. He was a dedicated member and officer of Centerville Masonic Lodge #619, where he found both brotherhood and purpose. He had a love for working on cars and could often be found at the racetrack, enjoying the roar of the engines. He loved classic cars and could spend hours working on them, sharing his knowledge with anyone who wanted to learn.
Music was another great love of his—his singing could light up a room, bringing joy to those around him. He loved to see people laugh, dance, and enjoy life. Whether he was singing at a gathering, joking with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with his loved ones, Larry had a way of making people feel special, heard, and appreciated.

But above all else, Larry’s greatest joy was his family. He lived for his children and grandchildren, always ensuring that they felt his love and support. He was their protector, their rock, and their biggest cheerleader. His love was unconditional, his guidance invaluable, and his presence irreplaceable.

Larry’s faith in Christ guided him throughout his life. He trusted in the Lord and walked a path of kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith. He led by example, showing his family what it meant to be a man of integrity, strength, and love. Now, he sits in the presence of his Savior, watching over those he loved so dearly. Though his earthly journey has ended, his spirit remains woven into the hearts of those he touched.

Larry Gilbert was a man who loved fiercely, gave selflessly, and lived fully. We mourn his passing, but we also celebrate the remarkable life he lived. His memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy of love and service will never be forgotten. He has left behind a family and community who will continue to honor his memory by living with the same kindness, strength, and generosity that he so effortlessly shared with the world.

Visitation with the family will be 7 April 2025 from 3:30 – 8:00 PM at McDonald Funeral Home, Inc. – Hickman County.  Funeral Services will be held 7 April 2025 from 5:30  – 6:30 PM at McDonald Funeral Home, Inc. – Hickman County.