James "Bennie" Gilbert

James Benjamin "Bennie" Gilbert, 69, died on December 9, 2025. Bennie was born on January 21, 1956, to the late BJ and Sophia Johnson Gilbert in Richmond. He was a life-long farmer. He loved what he did and worked hard all his life. He was a mentor to young farmers and was always willing to share his knowledge, even if he was not asked. Bennie was a gentle giant who could always tell a good story. He loved watching UK football and basketball. More than anything else, Bennie loved his family, especially his grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Bennie was predeceased by his son-in-law, Robb Newby.

Bennie is survived by his wife Terry Rye Gilbert, daughter, Jennifer Newby, son, Joey (Michelle) Gilbert, grandchildren, Paige Newby, Jenna Newby, Cora Gilbert, and Benjamin Gilbert, siblings, Imogene (Larry) Brown, Gary (Marlene) Gilbert, and Sondra (Eddie) Townsend, brother-in-law, Kevin (Linda)Rye, an many, much loved, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and one great-great-niece.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Immanuel Baptist Church. Rev. Andy Mikels will officiate. Pallbearers will be Allen Goggin, John Helm, Jeremy Wyles, Jerry Little, Brett Welty, Jesse Johnson, and Logan Goggin. Honorary pallbearers will be Oliver McCormack, James Higgins, Randy Deaton, Benny Hardesty, Kendall Ross, Sleet Leonard, Dale Cinnamon, and the Boyle County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, insurance agents, and staff. Visitation will be from 4 pm to 8 pm on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at Immanuel Baptist Church. Memorial donations may be made to the Boyle County High School FFA, the Boyle County High School Swim and Dive team, the Boyle County Education Foundation c/o Sports Network, and the Boyle County Education Foundation c/o Theatre Program.