Jean Gilbert, 88, passed away on October 25, 2022. A private celebration of life will be held at Brooks Funeral Care in November. Inurnment of cremated remains will be at Merle Hay Mausoleum.
Jean was born on December 25, 1933, to James and Emma (Howland) Kidd in Buchanan County, IA. She graduated from high school in Independence, Iowa. She married James H. Gilbert on June 7, 1953, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. They were married for 65 years until his death in 2019. In 1956, Jean and her family moved to Johnston, Iowa, where she lived for the rest of her life. Jean was a founding member of St. Paul Presbyterian Church and was the church’s financial secretary for many years. She also served her community through volunteer work. Jean loved animals and supported numerous charities helping animals in need.
Jean is preceded in death by her husband, James Gilbert; parents, James and Emma Kidd; and five brothers.
Jean is survived by her daughters, Linda Litterer (Thomas Buhrow) of Johnston, IA, Nancy (Gordon) McWilliams of Paola, KS, seven grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Carol Haight, of Independence, Iowa, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions for Jean Gilbert can be addressed to her family for later distribution or to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, in Des Moines.