CHARLESTON - Gary Gilbert of Charleston, IL entered his heavenly home on Monday, June 23, 2025 with his family by his side.  Gary was born on September 13, 1948, in Charleston, IL to Harry (Gene) Gilbert and Dora (Hopper) Gilbert.  He and Cheryl Boaz were united in marriage on July 17, 1982.  Cheryl gained a wonderful bonus daughter when she and Gary wed.

Gary is survived by his loving wife and care partner, Cheryl; their daughter Marny Fitzpatrick and her husband Brett; and two terrific grandchildren, Avery and Blake Fitzpatrick whom he loved and adored.  He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother and father-in-law, Bill and Martha Boaz; sister-in-law, Yvette Brown; brothers-in-law, Denny Boaz and Les Edwards; and nieces Rachel Brown and Carmen Williamson.

Attending the athletic events of Avery and Blake was high on Gary's list of things to do. He also loved a good day of fishing with them in our backyard, taking them on mini vacations to St. Louis, and hearing all their stories of things they have been enjoying with their friends.

Gary was a proud U. S. Army veteran.  He ran a carpenter's shop and was privileged to work in the Pentagon making showcases for various displays.

Construction was the only job Gary ever had.  He worked for IBC Homes, as a salesman for the Reasor Corporation, and retired as one of the owners of Luxury Homes, Inc.  He was very handy, and very particular about his work.

In addition to his wife, daughter and her family, Gary is survived by his sisters in law, Beverly Edwards of Shelbyville, Marcy Boaz of Charleston, and brother in law, Charles (Ed) Brown of Charleston, several nieces and nephews and cousins that he loved dearly.  Gary also loved his North Side Baptist Church family and greatly enjoyed the services and fellowship with everyone there.

Memorial donations in Gary's honor may be made to the North Side Baptist Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The funeral service honoring his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025 at Northside Baptist Church, 414 N. 5th Street, Charleson, with Pastor Tim Oakley officiating.  Burial will follow in Mound Cemetery, Charleston, with military rites by Paul McVey V.F.W. Post #1592 and its' auxiliary and Charleston American Legion Post #93.  Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service Thursday at the church.  Arrangements: Harper-Swickard.