William "Bill" Emerson Gilbert

William “Bill” Emerson Gilbert, 80, of Morehead City, North Carolina, was called home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

A memorial service to honor Bill’s life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 14 at First Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Jake Young. The family will receive friends following the service.

Bill was born on August 7, 1944, in Middletown, Connecticut, to the late Emerson and Carolyn Gilbert. A man of remarkable strength, humility, and perseverance, Bill was known for his deep love of family and unwavering faith. He received the highest civilian honor, the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award from the Navy and retired after 34 years as a Naval Architect. He contributed to groundbreaking efforts in submarine protection.

Bill loved spending quality time with his precious family, sailing on his beloved Sunfish, enjoying the beach, and golfing. Even after becoming a double amputee, he continued many activities which were a testament to his resilience and determination. He had a deep appreciation of math and science, always eager to learn throughout his life. He shared his life with three Doberman Pinschers who were his constant companions. A man of deep faith, Bill was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church where he served as an elder, sang in the church choir, and was also on the finance committee. He will be deeply missed by his family, church community, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”- Matthew 25:23

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Anne Knox Gilbert of the home; daughters, Carole Gilbert Overman (Marc) of Warrenton, Virginia, Paula Gilbert Fratantoni (Dave) of Falmouth, Massachusetts, and Wendy Gilbert Knight (Patrick) of Boyce, Virginia; grandchildren, William Overman (Helena) of Warrenton, Virginia, Grace Overman (Billy Simmeth) of Sterling, Virginia, Alex Fratantoni (Ruby Sanger) of Onset, Massachusetts, Annalisa Fratantoni of New York, New York; niece, Kim Bauerle of Wethersfield, Connecticut; and grand-niece, LTJG Rylee Malone US Navy of Bainbridge Island, Washington.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his sister, Susan Gilbert Bauerle, and brother-in-law, Pete.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carteret Health Care Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 1619, Morehead City, NC 28557 or First Presbyterian Church, 1604 Arendell Street, Morehead, City, NC 28557.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.