Norman Cleve Gilbert, a dedicated farmer and beloved family man, passed away on February 13, 2025, in Oklahoma City, at the age of 94. Born on May 25, 1930, in Norman, OK, to the late John Ellis & Mary Charlotte (Veal) Gilbert, Norman spent his formative years immersed in farming, which shaped his character and values. On June 2, 1951, he married Millie Uvoyne Carter, in Wayne, OK. She preceded him in death on November 8, 1994.
Growing up on a farm instilled in Norman a deep appreciation for hard work and self-sufficiency. He began his career in agriculture by farming alongside his father and later worked for his grandfather, T.C. Veal. They farmed land in the Norman, Davis, Hennepin, and Rosedale areas. Eventually, he purchased a farm west of the Joy school, where he and Millie raised their two daughters, Brenda and Sondra. Norman continued to farm and ranch in this location for many years, prior to his retirement.
Norman's educational journey began at the Woodland School, west of Davis. He often reminisced about his time there, particularly the day the school caught fire, which led to students and teachers saving books by throwing them out of the windows.
In retirement, Norman sold his farm and moved to Wynnewood, yet he never strayed far from his farming roots. Beyond his many years of farming, he found immense joy in his family. His favorite pastime was playing with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom he shared countless moments of laughter and love.
Norman's legacy extends beyond his family. He was one of the original volunteers that helped build the Joy Baptist Church, where he remained an active member for many years, contributing his time and support.
Norman is survived by his two daughters, Brenda Brazell & husband Troy of Yukon, and Sondra Gilbert of Wynnewood; grandchildren: Jeffery Gilbert Brazell & wife Starlett, Amber Kruger & husband Kirk, Cristin Eades & husband Scott, and Mindy Daino & husband Kalani; ten great-grandchildren: Rebel Brazell, Tallyn Brazell & wife Jade, Ellie Brazell, Ben Davis, Kent Norman Davis, Robbie Eades, Rylee Courtwright, Tai Stuart, James Daino and Caylee Daino; as well as one sister, Patsy Riley of Oklahoma City. Norman was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first great-great grandchild, Aliza Jane.
In addition to his wife and parents, Norman was preceded in death by brothers Hubert, Raymond, and John F. Gilbert; and sisters Inez Coffey, June Hickman, Delcine Young, and Clara Wallace.
Memorial services for Norman be held 2:00 PM, Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the Joy Baptist Church, with Brother Tom Whitaker officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that memorial contributions be made, in Norman's name, to a charity of your choice.
Services are entrusted to Hale's Funeral Home of Davis.
Online condolences may be offered at halesfuneralhomes.com.
Saturday, February 22, 2025
2:00 - 3:00 pm (Central time)
Joy Baptist Church
Visits: 421
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors