Donald Lee Gilbert

Donald Lee “Smokey” Gilbert, age 74, of Belle, passed away Sunday, April 16, 2023, at his home.

Don was born January 16, 1949, in Lamar, a son to the late Bill and Betty (Bright) Gilbert.

He graduated from California High School.

On June 25, 1988 he was united in marriage to Janet Acker in Belle. Janet survives of their home near Belle.

Don loved being outdoors fishing, boating the local rivers or hunting raccoon, deer and turkey. He had a heart of gold and would do anything to help another in need. Don was a great dad and husband and will be missed tremendously by his family, friends, and those that knew and loved him.   

In addition to his wife of 34 years, Don is survived by: four children, Bill Gilbert, Angie Belt and her husband Scotty, Shelly Edwards, and Joni Dorsey and her husband David Jenkins; one step-son, Robert Acker; seven grandchildren, Cody Edwards, Stephen Dorsey, Harley Belt, Chelsea Belt, Kelsey Belt, Samantha Dorsey, and Adaline Acker; eleven great-grandchildren, Wyatt Edwards, Bentley Dorsey, Raelynn Edwards, Airiannah Rains, Kinsley Dorsey, Fredrick Rank, Layne Dorsey, Gracelyn Rains, Weston Belt, Gunner Rains, and Maxon Rank as well as many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Judy Gilbert of California.  

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at the Belle Bland Community Center from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.  

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that expressions of sympathy may be made to the St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital in Memory of Donald L. Gilbert.