Arnold “RICO” Gilbert went home to Jesus on November 19, 2025, at age 70.

Arnold was born to Michelle Daniels and Thomas Gilbert on October 05, 1955, in Chicago, IL. As a child, he was known for his curiosity, his love of exploring the neighborhood with friends, and his natural talent for taking things apart just to put them back together again.

Arnold met his wife, Patricia Harris, in 1978 at a church community picnic on the South Side of Chicago. They married in 1980 and went on to have three children: Arnold Gilbert Jr., Steven Gilbert, and Elena Gilbert. Over the years, the family made several meaningful moves, eventually settling in Aurora, Illinois, where Arnold continued building a home filled with warmth, faith, and love.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving father, Arnold also loved working with his hands, fixing anything around the house, mentoring younger family members, and cheering loudly during weekend football games. Throughout his entire life, he held an unwavering faith in God, which he shared generously with everyone around him—through stories, prayers, and the quiet strength of his everyday actions.

Arnold joins his parents, Michelle Daniels and Thomas Gilbert; his brother, Robert Gilbert; and his niece, Jasmine Council in Heaven.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children, Arnold Jr., Steven, and Elena; his grandchildren, Stefon Gilbert and Kermit Gilbert; his sisters, Denise Harris and Carol Harris; and a large extended family who will forever cherish his memory.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” —Psalm 23:1

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