John Thomas “Tom” Gilbert — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

John Thomas “Tom” Gilbert, 83, of Quincy, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Tom was born September 28, 1941, in Quincy, IL to Wayne and Selma (Austin) Gilbert. On June 27, 1970, Tom married the love of his life, Marva Kelley, at Union United Methodist Church in Quincy, IL. Marva survives him, as do their two children, Dana Bliven and Ryan Gilbert (Laurie); two grandchildren, Zach Bliven (Andria) and Brody Gilbert; and three great-grandchildren, Naomi, Hudson, and Stormy Bliven.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Sharon Church; two brothers in-law, Marvin Church and Ronnie Kelley; two sisters in-law, Pat Muegge and Peggy Wear; and one nephew, Kevin Wear.

Tom’s journey began in Quincy, where he was a proud graduate of Quincy High School in 1959. His sense of duty led him to serve in the United States Navy, where he bravely fought in Vietnam. His commitment to service continued long after his military career, as he returned to Vietnam as a civilian to work on helicopters. Tom’s professional life was marked by his long-standing career at Prairie Farms, where he was a respected and dedicated employee. His passion for helping others shone through his volunteer work as a Tri-Township fireman.

Outside of work, Tom was a man of many passions. He was an avid boater and a member of several local boating clubs, including the Quincy Boat Club, the Quinsippi Yacht Club, and the Island Club. His love for the water was not just a hobby but a way of life, as he traveled as far as St. Louis and Wisconsin by boat.

Travel was another of Tom’s joys, with memorable trips to California, Texas, and a Caribbean cruise to celebrate his 40th wedding anniversary with Marva. An avid hunter, Tom enjoyed the pursuit of duck, geese, and quail. He was also a formidable competitor on the drag racing circuit, often seen winning races in Kahoka in his ’58 Green Chevy. At home, he could be found watching Westerns or cheering on his favorite Big 10 Basketball teams.

Yet, it was his role as a family man that truly defined him. Tom was a fixture at his grandchildren’s events, a master of the grill at family cookouts, and a lover of “belly rubbers” Oldies that set the tone for countless cherished moments. Tom’s memory will forever be a beacon of strength and love for all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Friends and Family are invited to Tom’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Thursday from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Memorial Service will be at 6:00 pm Thursday, May 1, 2025, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy. Rev. Steve Disseler will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Veteran’s Home Activity Fund or the Great River Honor Flight.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.