Wilbert Gilbeaux Sr.

September 20, 1936 - November 9, 2021

Wilbert Gilbeaux, Sr. Jennings: It is with heavy hearts that we share with you that our father, grandfather, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend, Wilbert Gilbeaux, Sr. passed away peacefully on November 9, 2021. Wilbert was born in Lake Arthur, LA on September 20, 1936, to Harry Gilbeaux, Sr. and Mamie Keogh Gilbeaux. Wilbert was valedictorian of his class at Jeff Davis Parish Training School in 1955. He received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree at Southern University, and his plus 30 graduate hours at Colorado State University. He then went on to serve our country honorably as a lieutenant in the US Army, before starting his career in Education where he worked for Jefferson Davis Parish School Board for over thirty years. He first served as a math teacher, became assistant principal at Jennings High School, and then principal at both Central Elementary and Welsh Elementary. After his retirement, he and his brothers opened Gilbeaux Brothers Construction. Wilbert also served as a deacon at Union Baptist Church, as well as on the Jennings City Council. He was a member of the Masonic Order Mount Olive Lodge# 202. He was also involved in numerous other civic organizations in his community. His greatest joy came from time spent with his family, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Wilbert was a kind and generous man who was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Wilbert is survived by his son, Wilbert Gilbeaux, Jr. (Lorena); his daughter, Erika (Deon) Williams; his grandchildren, Courtney (Craig) Coutee, Donavon (Krista) Thibodeaux, Jade and Jaxon Gilbeaux; his great grandchildren, Riley, Jaden, and Conner Coutee, and Dallas Thibodeaux. Wilbert was preceded in death by his wife, Maynell Gilbeaux; his daughter, Bridget Gilbeaux Thibodeaux; his parents, Harry and Mamie Gilbeaux; three brothers, Clovis (Celestine), Ray (Louella), and Harry (Rose); three sisters, Clossie (Eugene) Gaul, Deridder (Melvin) Johnnie, and Jeanette (Fedelis) Goodwin; and his in-laws, Clarence (Essie) Dartez. Funeral Services will be held at Union Baptist Church in Jennings, LA on Friday, November 12, 2021. The viewing will be held from 8:00 AM until 11 AM. The service will begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cemetery.