James Carl Gilbert, Sr.

James Carl Gilbert, Sr., age 76, of Clarkesville, Georgia, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

Born in Heidelberg, Mississippi, on October 9, 1949, James was the beloved son of the late Rev. Wyatt Malcolm Gilbert, Sr. and Susie Irene Hightower Gilbert. From his earliest days, James embodied the warmth, kindness, and joyful spirit that would define his life. Those who knew James will remember him as a man who never met a stranger. With a gift of gab and a heart eager to connect, he brought laughter, comfort, and companionship wherever he went. His love for learning and his passion for music guided his life’s work. A proud graduate of Truett McConnell College and Piedmont College, he earned his master’s degree in music education before later completing a Divinity degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Through these pursuits, James united his love of music with his deep and enduring faith.

James shared his musical talent generously, serving as a music teacher in the Habersham County School System and directing music in several churches throughout Habersham County and South Carolina. His leadership extended beyond the classroom and sanctuaries—James also dedicated many years to shaping young lives as the Boy Scout Leader of Troop #5. Whether guiding a scout, directing a choir, or chaperoning countless chorus and band trips, James poured his heart into helping others grow.

He also had a fun-loving side and a deep sense of curiosity. James was an avid Georgia Bulldogs fan—cheering them on through every season—and a devoted Bigfoot enthusiast, always ready with a story, a theory, or a laugh. In his spare moments, he enjoyed woodworking, finding peace and purpose in crafting with his hands.

But above all else, James cherished his family and friends. They were the true joy of his life. His love was steady, his support unwavering, and his encouragement often punctuated with his signature phrase: “Keep on trucking.” These words—simple yet full of hope—reflected the resilient spirit with which he lived.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his siblings Susan Gilbert Fagan, Dr. Stewart Gilbert, and W.M. Gilbert, Jr.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Janice Grindle Gilbert; his daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer Kristen Gilbert Frost (Michael Jason “Frosty”) and Josette LeAnn Gilbert Warren (Nathan); his sons and daughter-in-law, Joshua Beau Gilbert (April) and James Carl “J.J.” Gilbert, Jr. James leaves behind six treasured grandchildren—Jonathan Clark, Joseph Clark, Jael Esther Frost, Lillian Grace Warren, Elijah Davis Warren, and Noah James Lee Warren—who will forever cherish his stories, his warmth, and his love. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who were touched by his presence.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home with Rev. James Phillips Gilbert officiating.

Following the service, and in accordance with his wishes, James will be cremated.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

In honor of James’s joyful, welcoming spirit, the family invites you to come as you are to help celebrate his life—whether in Georgia Bulldog red and black or with a nod to his love of Bigfoot lore. They hope this gathering will reflect the warmth, humor, and authenticity that James carried with him every day.

James Carl Gilbert, Sr. lived a life filled with faith, music, service, and love. His legacy will resonate in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. May his memory be a song that continues to inspire, comfort, and encourage us to “keep on trucking,” just as he always said.

An online guest registry is available for the Gilbert family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.