Willie Ray Gilbert

Willie Ray Gilbert, age 85, resident of Haskell, OK, entered into the Gates of Heaven on Monday morning, June 16, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, OK. He was born on August 9, 1939, in Coweta, OK to Roy Herbert and Rosa Lorene (Ketchum) Gilbert. Willie's life was a testament to hard work, faith, and family love.

Willie's journey began in the small town of Coweta, where he attended Coweta Public Schools and laid the foundation for a life of dedication and service. He married the love of his life, Mildred Lucile Kilgore, on November 15, 1957, in Haskell, OK. Together, they built a family and a legacy that would endure through the generations.

Throughout his life, Willie was known for his strong work ethic. He began working at an early age and mastered various trades, including owning a sawmill, becoming a skilled stone mason, and eventually, a respected home builder. His craftsmanship was a reflection of his attention to detail and his commitment to excellence.

Willie's devotion to his Christian faith was unwavering. He served as a minister for 57 years, touching countless lives with his wisdom and compassion. His church family was an extension of his own, and he cherished the relationships he built within his spiritual community.

After retiring, Willie found joy in restoring old vehicles, a hobby that showcased his patience and talent for bringing the past back to life. His interests were diverse, but nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with his family. He was a pillar of strength and love for his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, who will miss him dearly.

Willie is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Mildred Gilbert of the home in Haskell, OK; his daughters, Vickie Davidson and husband Mark of Coweta, OK, and Regina Gilbert of Haskell, OK; his son, Keith Gilbert of Broken Arrow, OK; nine grandchildren, Mildred Ruiz and husband Pedro, Dee Moses and husband Jarrod, Jennifer Capps and husband Michael, Randi Joice, Gabe Gilbert, Talvi Tolkiien-Gilbert, Wyatt Gilbert, Gunner Gilbert, and Tate Gilbert; nine great-grandchildren, Annaliese Ruiz, Isaiah Ruiz, Rodney Moses, Madison Moses, Dakota Chaney, Lucchese Chaney, Serenity Callison, Zoe Callison, and RJ Joice; three great-great-grandchildren; his sister, Marion Mashburn of Coweta, OK; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives who will cherish his memory.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Roy Herbert and Rosa Lorene Gilbert; his son, Grason Grant Gilbert; three brothers; and four sisters. Willie's legacy is one of love, faith, and perseverance, and his memory will be honored by all who knew him.

Visitation for Willie will be held from 12:00 - 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Brown Funeral Home in Coweta, OK, with the family present from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. Services celebrating Willie's life will take place at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Coweta Church of God of Prophecy in Coweta, OK, with Pastor Larry Duncan officiating. Willie will be laid to rest at Vernon Cemetery in Coweta, OK.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences online at www.brownfamilycares.com. Willie's family has entrusted his care and services to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.