Donald E. Gilbert, Sr. passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the age of 78, at his home in Winston, GA. with his family by his side.

Don was born on January 1, 1948, in Atlanta, GA., to Andrew J. Gilbert and Opal Baswell. He was a graduate of O'Keefe High School in 1966 and retired from Sears, Roebuck & Co. in 2013. He loved trivia, studying ancestry, and all sports-especially baseball-as well as spending time at their place on Weiss Lake in Centre, AL. He moved to Douglas County in 1971 and lived there ever since.

Don is survived by his wife of 59 years, Diana Kay Gilbert; his son, Donald E. Gilbert, Jr. (Alyce); his son, Gregory Keith Gilbert (Trisha); his grandson, Chris Gilbert; his granddaughter, Katelyn Gilbert; his granddaughter, Molly Demetrius (Brandon); and his grandsons, Cody Gilbert and Colton Gilbert. He loved his family with all his heart and was extremely proud to be called the "Patriarch" of the Gilbert clan. There was never a time he could not be called upon for questions or advice, and he always had the perfect answer or explanation.

"Pop" will especially be remembered for his love of people. He never met a stranger and enjoyed genuine conversations with everyone he encountered. Through this, he made countless friends throughout his long and fulfilling life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Mark Richt Family Foundation, which concentrates its efforts on finding a cure for Parkinson's disease.

You may share your thoughts and condolences online at www.hightowersmemorial.com.

Hightower's Memorial Chapel of Douglasville has charge of the arrangements.