Thomas Anthony Gilbert

Thomas Anthony Gilbert obituary, Durand, MI

Thomas Anthony Gilbert

Thomas Gilbert Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald’s Chapel on Oct. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Thomas Anthony Gilbert, age 61, of Howell, passed away on July 30, 2025.
Born on April 28, 1964, in Albany to the late Wayne and Patricia Gilbert, Tom was known for his warmth, humor, and unforgettable personality. He was a proud brother to David (Karen) Gilbert and Donna (Kevin) Tyus, a loving uncle to his many nieces and nephews, and a cherished cousin to countless others.
Tom had a lifelong love of vintage records and Big Band music, passions that reflected his nostalgic spirit. A devoted sports enthusiast, he enjoyed football, baseball, and hockey, and even served as a broadcaster for the Lansing Crusaders football team-a role that perfectly suited his outgoing nature and flair for storytelling.
Though he never owned a dog, Tom was a dog lover through and through. He was known for keeping treats on hand just to greet neighborhood pups from his porch. His generous spirit extended to everyone he met.
With an incredible memory and a knack for directions, Tom was affectionately called a "walking road atlas." He could guide anyone to anywhere with precision. At work, he brought laughter daily, known for his chatter, endless bad jokes, and a kind heart. As a longtime forklift operator at Pepsi-Cola, Tom was more than a coworker-he was a friend to all.
Tom will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. His kindness, humor, and big-hearted nature leave behind a legacy of joy and warmth.
A visitation will be held for Tom from 11:00-1:00pm with a service beginning at 1:00pm on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, MacDonald Chapel, 315 N. Michigan Ave., Howell. Tom will be laid to rest immediately following services at Lakeside Cemetery. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Tom's life and legacy.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes – MacDonald’s Chapel

315 N. Michigan Ave., Howell, MI 48843

Make a Donation
in Thomas Gilbert's name

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Thomas Gilbert's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Thomas Gilbert's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?