Bobby Jean Gilbert

Bobby Jean Gilbert, a beloved member of the Pace, MS, community, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, at the age of 90. A visitation for Bobby Jean Gilbert will be held on January 10, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Ray Funeral Home in Cleveland, MS, followed by a Celebration of Life service beginning at 11:00 AM. The graveside service will take place at North Cleveland Cemetery following the Service.

Bobby was born on April 17, 1935, to Homer and Rosa Mae Gilbert in Cleveland, MS. Bobby dedicated an impressive 75 years of his life to farming, a testament to his hardworking spirit and deep connection to the land. He married the love of his life, Geneva Kay White November 5, 1955.

Throughout his life, Bobby was known not only for his contributions to agriculture but also for his vibrant personality. He had a love for taking the back roads and riding the levee in the warmth of the sun. Avidly pursuing his hobbies, Bobby enjoyed hunting and fishing and spent countless hours tending to his garden, where he found joy.

In the Pace community, Bobby was recognized for his dedication and longevity, receiving an award as the oldest and longest resident. He cherished moments spent reminiscing with friends at WalMart, where his warmth and humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Rosa Mae Gilbert, whose love and guidance shaped the man he became. Along with his siblings, Joseph Gilbert, Ed Gilbert, Eva Pearl Gilbert, Homer Gilbert Jr., Mary Lee Gilbert Pope, Jimmy Lee “Tuck” Gilbert, Billy Ray Gilbert, Howard Lynn Gilbert, Rita Moody, and Nita Oller.

Bobby leaves behind his beloved wife of 70 years, Geneva Kay Gilbert, and their children: Brenda Kay Carter of Clarksville, TN; Debra Jean Noble of Cleveland, MS; Glen Allen Gilbert (Kim) of Drew, MS; Sharon Ann Thornburg (Derek) of Grenada, MS; and Mary Katherine Barlow (Bubba) of Valley Park, MS. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Jeffrey Allen O'Neill (Alexandria) of Smyrna, TN; Kimberly Grace Hogue (Justin) of Erin, TN; Dorothy Kay Hudak (Chris) of Clarksville, TN; Ronald William Sagar (Courtney) of Clarksville, TN; Steven John Noble Jr. (Stephanie) of Greenwood, MS; Reena Blair Noble (Mack) of Greenwood, MS; Brandon Keith Gilbert (Dana) of Jackson, MS; Chase Allio Gilbert (Rachel) of Cleveland, MS; Peyton Weems of Greenwood, MS; Stephanie Kay Utroska (Chris) of Greenwood, MS; Heather Nicole Sappenfield (Jason) of Southaven, MS; Jessica Olivia Barlow of Valley Park, MS; and Paul Wesley Barlow IV of Valley Park, MS. He is also survived by a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored and cherished deeply.

He will be remembered fondly for his unwavering spirit, his love for his family, and his contributions to the community that he held so dear. A special thank you to Patricia Gilbert for her tender love and care of his last days.