Jimmie G. Gilbert, age 87, of Wilmington, DE 19808 passed away on December 9, 2023.

Born in his family's home in Auto, WV, he was the son of the late Lessie (Lyall) and James Howard Gilbert. He worked as a heating and air conditioning professional throughout his career, but his real passion was horse racing. Jimmie was a horse owner for nearly 50 years. Jimmie was also a 64-year member of Aetna Hose, Hook, and Ladder Fire Company in Newark, DE. He was also a longtime member of the Moose Lodge in Wilmington, DE.

In addition to his parents, Jimmie was predeceased by his late wife Edna Gilbert and his stepbrother, Kenneth Frock. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Donna Jean Gilbert; his children and their spouses, Jimmy Jr., and Melissa Gilbert, Brenda and Russ Threlkeld, Dennis Gilbert, Donald and Donna Wood, and Rhonda and David Schreck; 14 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; and his brother, Bonner "Gil" and Karen Gilbert.

A visitation will be held on Saturday December 16th, 2023 from 12 P.M. to 2 P.M at the Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road Wilmington, DE 19808, where funeral services will begin at 2 P.M. Burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Accent Care Hospice, 220 Continental Dr Ste 407 Newark, DE 19713, or Aetna Hose, Hook, and Ladder Fund Drive, PO Box 148, Newark, DE 19715.