Paul E. Gilbert, Jr.

Danville – Paul Eugene Gilbert, Jr., 91, of Danville, passed away at 4:45 AM on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Accolade of Danville. He was born on May 15, 1935, in Springfield, IL to Paul Eugene Gilbert, Sr. and Pauline A. (Floyd) Gilbert. He married Nova Ann Edge on October 18, 1954, with whom he had six daughters. She preceded him in death on July 5, 2017.

He is survived by five daughters, Sallie Wilkins of Urbana, Gina (Roger) Lapp of Blythewood, SC, Jennifer (John) Thompson of Danville, Bekki (Vince) Ramirez of Danville, and Sandi (Karl) Penrod of Danville; eight grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren; a brother, Marion Gilbert, and a sister, Judy Colgan.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Angela Shafer; sister, Charlotte Gilbert; two grandchildren; and three sons-in-law, Gary Price, Rick Kist, and Don Wilkins.

After graduating high school, Paul joined the Illinois National Guard where he served for ten years. He was a longtime member of both the Lion’s Club and St. Paul Catholic Church in Danville. Many will remember Paul as the owner of Beltone of Danville and Champaign, a business he operated in for over 45 years until his retirement. After handing the keys over to his daughters, Paul enjoyed meticulously tending to his flower and vegetable gardens. He also liked to travel, spending time in places such as Italy and France, and with his daughter Gina in Africa for several months. Most of all, he loved to be around his family and spend time with his children and grandchildren. He will be missed dearly by them.

A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate the life of Paul E. Gilbert, Jr., will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Danville. Visitation will be held from 1-2 PM prior to mass on Saturday, July 18, also at St. Paul in Danville. Cremation will follow services with entombment at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834 has been entrusted with arrangements.

Please join Paul’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.