Obituary of John "Papa" McKenzie Gilbert

Mr. John “Papa” McKenzie Gilbert, age 90, of Barnesville, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, August 19, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Papa John was born on Monday, March 26, 1934, in Thomaston, Georgia, to the late Ernest McKenzie Gilbert and the late Alma Stephens, in addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his brothers; Walter Gilbert, Harold Gilbert, H.C. Gilbert, Freddie Gilbert.

Papa John was “papa” to every single kid he ever came into contact with. Even the people his age called him Papa, he was one of the good ones. Mean as a snake sometimes, but the gentlest soul if you ever sat and talked with him. He didn’t take anything off anyone but would give you anything you needed. He served in the United States Navy for 26 years, as a Seabees, and retired as senior chief. He ran our Lamar County Recreation department for many years devoting his life to the kids of our county, trying to build youth sports and give the children of our community something to do and a place to go. He was a devoted Christian and was loved by everyone in our community.

Papa John is survived by his daughter; Cheri Colbert (Truby); sons, Foy Gilbert (Dana), Joel Gilbert (Aida), Leland Gilbert; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Devin, Danny, Jaxson, Ethan, Mara, Meryn, Harrison, JohnAlton, Reed, Breanna, Cody, Christine, Jordan, Ansley, Reece, Tinnley; sisters, Helen Lackey, Carolyn Stout, Diane Cochran, many nieces, nephews and extended family.

A visitation for John “Papa” McKenzie Gilbert will be held on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Williams-Westbury Funeral Home. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Those who wish may leave an online condolence on our website, www.williams-westburyfuneralhome.com

Williams-Westbury Funeral Home, 526 College Drive, Barnesville, is proudly serving the Gilbert Family.