David Gilbert

David Gilbert, 90, of Middletown, passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Bethel Pointe Health and Rehabilitation in Muncie. He was born on October 23, 1934, in Wells County, Indiana, to the late John and Rita (Dowty) Gilbert.

On December 22, 1956, David married his high school sweetheart, Linda Day, beginning a loving union that spanned 68 years.

David was a proud veteran of the United States Army and a dedicated educator. He earned a master’s degree in education from Ball State University. His career in education began at Hagerstown Schools as a teacher, then serving as principal at Shenandoah Elementary and also educated at Anderson Vocational School. One of his proudest achievements was overseeing the construction of Shenandoah Elementary School. After decades of inspiring students and making a difference in the community that he loved, David retired in 1997.

David had a passion for collecting antique radios and restoring them. He was an avid IU basketball fan and found joy in spending time with his family. The love for his community continued by volunteering at the Middletown Food Pantry.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Gilbert; daughters, Lisa and Julie; seven grandchildren, Sarah, Sam, Scott, Samantha, Lindsay, Carolyn, and John; 11 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and his sister, Carol.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by a daughter, Krista; siblings, Ruth, Darrell, Lowell, Lois, Joyce, and Jan. 

Services will be held at 1:00pm Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at the Middletown Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Phil Rogers officiating. Burial will follow in Miller Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00am until the time of service on Wednesday at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Habitat for Humanity, Middletown Food Pantry or the American Cancer Society. You may express condolences or share memories of David at www.ballardandsons.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Ballard and Sons Funeral Home in Middletown.