John Neal Gilbert

John Neal Gilbert, 51, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2015 at his residence. A native and lifelong resident of Buncombe County, He was a son of Tony LeVoughn Gilbert, and his wife Ellen Louise Gilbert and the late Peggy Robinson Gilbert. A strong soul, John lived his life with energy, full of hope and passion for his family, his Community, and young people. Tammy and John celebrated a wonderful marriage. Young people in many places were their children. They shared what was in their pockets with other peoples children..at the Scout Camp, on the baseball field, at-risk youth through the Sheriffs Department, and at Anderson University. John was a Deputy with the Buncombe County Sheriffs Department for 27 years, through several administrations, as the newly elected Sheriff would come to office, he saw the value in keeping John on his Staff. Many a middle-schooler has learned the skills of baseball from John as he coached and shared his love of the game. A ribbon-winning BBQ pit-master, John honed his slow-cooking talents for years as he so enjoyed the thrill of the grill. His sauce was special. Although John was not heavily involved in Scouting as a youngster, when he arrived as a High Adventure Staff Member in the early 1980s, he fit right in. Always on time, always in uniform, up early, and still working late at night, always prepared for a change of plans, and he could drive any type of vehicle. John loved Camp, and Camp loved John. Johns light, and his life, have been an inspiration. Surviving in addition to his father are his wife, Tammy McGinnis Gilbert of the home; sisters: Angela Gilbert Cox, and Tina Elizabeth Wood and husband Zach; brother, Eric Scott Gilbert and wife Michelle; and nieces and nephews: Jerry A. Cox III, Jordan A. Cox, Kayla Marie Stapp, Tyler Scott Gilbert, and CJ Clark. The family will receive friends at Anders-Rice Funeral Home on Monday, January 26, 2015, from 6 till 8 PM. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Boy Scouts Camp Daniel Boone, Staff Alumni Projects, 333 West Haywood St, Asheville, NC 28801. A video tribute will be available for a limited time Click Here