Jimmy Earl Gilbert; 86 years, 5 months, 12 days; of Madisonville, TX; passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at home surrounded by his loving family. Graveside services are scheduled for 11AM on Wednesday; July 19, 2023 at The Madisonville Cemetery with Larry Sopchak officiating.

There will be a visitation prior to the service beginning at 10AM.

Jimmy was born on February 8, 1937 in Leon County to Earl Gilbert and Edwin (Goodrum) Gilbert. He married his beloved wife, Betty Jo (Spillars) Gilbert and they spent several years in Pasadena, TX before returning to Madisonville, where they spent the rest of their adult lives.

They had a wonderful and special love for each other for sixty-five years.

Jimmy was an owner/operator of the Corral Cafe in Madisonville for many years and was a faithful member and deacon of The First Baptist Church in Madisonville.

Jimmy was proceeded in death by his parents; his wife; his son, Jimmy Earl Gilbert, Jr; his great grandson, Kiren McAdams; and his siblings, Patsy Corley, Glenda Jackson, and Mike Gilbert.

Jimmy is survived by his daughter, Holly McVey (Bill); his granddaughter Leslie McAdams (Willie), his great grandson Deontae A. McAdams (Shay); his great great grandchildren, Deontae L. McAdams and Thailand Overton (all of Madisonville); his sister, Tona Sims of Pasadena; his numerous nieces and nephews and several special friends of many years. He is also survived by one of the best uncles a person could ever have, Frank Gilbert, Jr. and one of the best friends a person could ask for, Sonny Reno.

Serving as pallbearers are the Deacons of The First Baptist Church of Madisonville.

Honorary pallbearers include; Sonny Reno, James Hobson, Pee Wee Broxton, Hillary Goodrum, Jim Gilpen, Phil Weldon, Ray McVey, Randy Campbell, Randy Huffman, Frank Gilbert, Jr. and Steve McCollough. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The First Baptist Church (300 South Elm Street; Madisonville, TX 77864).