Albert Woods Gilbert, beloved father and grandfather, better known as "Woody" or "Poppy" passed away unexpectedly on Thursday evening, June 1st, 2023. He was 83 years old.

The son of Mr. and Mrs. Percy Gilbert, Woody grew up in Memphis,Tn. He was born on February 14th, 1940 at Saint Joseph's Hospital. Woody was a graduate of Messick High School.

In January 1959, at the age of 19, Woody enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He attained the rank of Corporal, and as part of this service was radio chief before receiving his certificate of honorable discharge in January 1965.

After his service, Woody worked many years as a boat mechanic for Counce Marine in Memphis, Tn. He also owned a service station at the corner of Willow Rd. & Mt. Moriah Rd.

Woody married twice, and had one son and two step-sons. He came into his stepchildren's lives when they were 12 years old & 7 years old. His wife, Malinda Carol Gilbert, (aka "Sissy") preceded him in death on November 4th, 2004.

Woody found joy in pouring himself out for his family. It was not uncommon to find him helping his neighbors either— whether it be cutting grass for an elderly friend or handyman projects around the neighborhood. When you ask his children they tell you that dad liked to fix things, that he was organized, that he had a lot of wisdom, and that he enjoyed yard work, fishing, working in his shop on various woodwork or leatherwork projects. They say that he liked to unwind in his recliner, watch the news and tv westerns, or college basketball. As he got older he took up assembling complex lego models with his son, James; and even planting a few vegetables in his yard. His sons remember how enthusiastic he was about hanging Christmas lights outside for the holidays. As they look through old pictures they reminisce wonderful Christmas memories together.

Woody loved animals. At one point in time he even owned four dogs, two birds, and a cat. Woody loved children; He loved his children, and he especially loved and was proud of his grandchildren— and this was evident by the ways that he chose to spend any of his spare time or resources.  Woody assisted his step-son's high school baseball coach with spring & summer leagues. He coached a girls' softball team. Woody was a teachers' assistant for many years at Sea Isle Elementary school. He would buy popsicles at the grocery store and take them to school in a cooler to give to the students. He touched many lives in many ways just by showing up, being present, bringing his great sense of humor, his honest work ethic, and his love around with him.

God blessed Woody with three grand-daughter's, two step-granddaughter's, and daughter-in-laws that were like his own children. Woody, fondly known as "Poppy" or "Grandpa", doted on his granddaughters. When you ask his grandchildren they tell you that he always had ice cream or popsicles in the freezer to share, that he never minded hosting sleepovers, or helping them with homework, and that he enjoyed sitting out on the front porch just watching things around the neighborhood. They are reminded of his generosity and his love for them. No, he was not tech savvy, but he certainly made sure to call or send a text just to say hello or to see how they were doing. He was so proud of them. They truly increased his joy in life. They remember Easter egg hunts in his front yard, they remember him giving them their first bicycles and then going up to the park to teach them how to ride. These are just a handful of examples. He gave of his time, his talents, and his treasures to love his family well.

Woody leaves his son, David Gilbert (and his wife Brenda Gilbert), his two step-sons, James Ammons and Thomas Ammons (and his wife Elizabeth Ammons), and his daughter-in-law, Joanne House (and her husband Jeremy House). His brother, Fred Gilbert, preceded him in death as well as his beloved wife, "Sissy", and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Percy Gilbert. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Abigail Ammons, MacKenzie Ammons, Julia Dyess, Georgia Dyess, and Eleanor Ammons.

Family and friends are invited to attend the viewing and funeral to be held at Forest Hill Funeral Home, 2440 Whitten Rd, Memphis, Tn. 38133, on Monday June 12th, with the viewing beginning at 1:00 PM and the funeral service at 2:00 PM. Burial will follow immediately after at 2545 Holmes Rd, Memphis, Tn. 38118.