John Gilbert died February 28, 2025, at his new apartment in Texas. John leaves behind is only daughter, Christine Gilbert Scheeler, and his grandchildren, Carrie and Andrew Scheeler, as well as his son-in-law, Mike Scheeler. He also leaves behind his niece, Jacqueline Gilbert Cline from his brother Ray Irl.

He was proceeded in death by his parents: Ray Gilbert, Sr. and Pearl Gilbert, his beloved Grandmother, Flossie Balser, his brothers, Walter Balser, Ray Gilbert, Jr. and his nephew, Mark Gilbert.

John had many loves in his life including Susan Novak, Sheri Ellis and Carol Martin. They each were celebrated and truly loved by him throughout the remainder of his life.

Those that knew John, know he lived his life happily and always in the pleasure of others winning people over with his infectious smile and personality, there wasn’t much he wouldn’t do for those he called his family and friends.

John spent many of his years as a drummer and band manager of many bands, including Mountain Fever, Sky Dancing, Hot Rods, and probably his favorite - the Copper Run Band. John even performed with a traveling show band that toured most of the country. When not with the show band, John’s bands played throughout Florida and Georgia. In Georgia, his bands usually played at the Cabaret in Lyons, where his love for the Lyons first took root. In Lyons-Vidalia, he found not just a place to play, but a community that embraced him and his music. He cherished the friendships he made along the way—Ruby Jean, Jeff Chandler, Sam Young, Dennis, Rick, and so many other talented musicians who shared the stage with him. From Copper Run to the many bands, he played with throughout his life, John left his mark on music and in the hearts of those who listened.

John then moved to Kentucky, where he met Susan Novak, who spent 20+ years together. John then went on to switch up careers and became the #1 car salesman for many years, in Bardstown, Kentucky at 44-Automart. John did not know a stranger and finding a second career as a Car Salesman really fulfilled him. He met great friends at 44-Automart and he missed them once he retired.

John then moved to Texas to be with his daughter, Christine and his grandchildren, Carrie and Andrew Scheeler. In John’s final month, he had moved into his senior apartment and quickly made new friends and truly was the time of his life – again – making music and laughing and smiling.

Those that loved John will never forget him and we just know he’s probably in heaven making music with his previously deceased friends and family.

For John, the music never stopped, and neither does the love and memories he left behind.

Details about a memorial service will be forthcoming, so please check back soon. For more information, or if you would like to share something special about John, your friend and my father, please reach out to me. I enjoy the stories of memories he created in his life.

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