Duane Gilbert

(From Parker Mortuary)

Duane Paul Gilbert, 77, of Webb City, passed away Wednesday morning, June 9, 2021.

Duane was born May 27, 1944 in Joplin to the late Homer Gray and Deana Ruth (Dillon) Gilbert. Duane lived in the Joplin area all of his life. Graduating from Joplin High School in 1962. After high school Duane proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Duane was a long-time member of Fairview Baptist Church.

On August 17, 1968 Duane was united in marriage to Betty J. Brand. Together they shared 52 precious years before his passing.

Duane retired from the Joplin School District after twenty-one years of service in the maintenance department. Over the years he also worked as a reserve officer for several local police departments and was currently working as a security guard for Allied Universal Security Services at the Joplin VA Clinic since its opening in 2019.

Duane enjoyed working and was not one to ever sit still. He loved getting to visit with people and share stories of his Navy days. He never saw taking care of his lawn as a chore it was something he truly enjoyed. But most of all he cherished the time spent and memories created with his wife, family and friends. Duane will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Duane was preceded in death by his brothers, Tim Gilbert, Charles Gilbert and Robert Gilbert.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Betty; children, Tracy Turner (Kevin) and Darrin Gilbert (Gaileen Harmon); grandchildren, Shawn Valentine, Adrian Valentine, Alex Gilbert and Noah Abdelhamid; great grandchildren, Alysann Valentine, Isaiah Turner and Isabell Turner; sisters- in-law, Sue Gilbert and Connie Gilbert; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 19, 2021 at Fairview Baptist Church. Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary.