Anita Kathryn Gilbert

Anita Kathryn Gilbert, affectionately known as Kathy by her loved ones, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, November 23, 2024, at St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the age of 65. She was born on April 10, 1959, in Los Angeles, California to Carl Odie and Juanita F. (Saint) Lemons. Kathy's journey through life was marked by an unwavering devotion to her family, a spirited love for animals, and an infectious zest for life that touched everyone she knew.

Kathy's legacy is cherished by her beloved husband of 48 years, Curtis Gilbert, with whom she shared a deep bond of love and partnership. Together, they built a life full of laughter, dance, and cherished memories. Kathy is also lovingly remembered by her daughters, Kelley Hatcher and her husband Perry, and Christy Gilbert, all of Coweta, Oklahoma; her son, Daniel Gilbert and his wife Ashley of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; her grandchildren, Kobe Elliott, Deserea Gilbert, Kali Elliott, Kaitlyn Gilbert, Alexis Gilbert, Eli Gilbert, Brandon Hatcher, Bryan Hatcher, Michael Day, Bradley Day, and Summer Day; and her siblings, Joe Murray and his wife Susana, and Debbie Wheeler. She was a cherished daughter-in-law to Geraldine Gilbert and a best friend and special in-law to Angela Thorn. Her extended family of in-laws, Dyana Jackson and her husband Doug, Bev Stach and her husband Jug, Michelle Christian and her husband Rick, and Angie Dodson and her husband Chad, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives, will remember her fondly.

Kathy was a proud graduate of Coweta High School in Coweta, Oklahoma. She embraced her role as a devoted homemaker and stay-at-home mom with grace and dedication, creating a warm and welcoming home for her family and friends.

Her passion for life was evident in her many interests. Kathy's early years in Coweta were filled with the joy of growing up with horses, a love that stayed with her throughout her life. She was often seen riding with a smile as wide as the open skies. Her dogs, Jack, Chev, Lilly, and Luna, were treasured companions who added to the joy in her home.

Kathy's marriage to Curtis was a beautiful testament to love and partnership. They were united in matrimony on September 10, 1976, by Bishop Bennie B. Ketchum, Curtis's great-grandfather. Curtis lovingly gave Kathy the nickname "Cletus" and their relationship was filled with playful pranks and laughter. Together, they shared a love for music and dance, teaching country and western dancing, and even contributing to a dance instruction video.

Kathy's competitive spirit shone brightly during family game nights, where she enjoyed playing dominoes and Skip-Bo with her mother-in-law. She was known for her delicious potato soup and tuna salad, and her love for Pepsi was a well-known trait among her family. Kathy's teachings on forgiveness and her big heart for helping others were cornerstones of her character.

Her children fondly recall the life lessons she shared; Kelley learned to drive a standard transmission under her guidance, and Daniel learned to stand up to bullies with her support and to karate chop someone’s neck. Kathy's love for music ranged from the beats of Sir Mix-a-Lot and Salt-N-Pepa to the country twangs of George Strait and K.T. Oslin. Her enthusiasm for Halloween and the joy it brought to her family was a testament to her youthful spirit.

Kathy's faith was a source of strength and comfort to her and her family. She often expressed her readiness to meet Jesus, and the Lord provided peace to Curtis with the assurance of a glorious reunion.

Kathy’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and kindness. While there are no services planned, her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and celebrate Kathy's life online at www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Kathy Gilbert entrusted her care and cremation to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.