Bruce Howard Gilbert

Lexington, Kentucky Bruce Howard Gilbert, 66, passed away peacefully at 1:20am on Monday, March 10, 2014 surrounded by his wife and two daughters. Born in Harlan, Kentucky on April 30, 1947, he was a resident of Lexington, Kentucky and had previously lived in Paintsville, Kentucky and Oak Hill, Ohio. A graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, he built a career in the explosives industry working for several different companies. In 2013 he retired from the position of Safety Director at Nelson Brothers. An avid gardener, grill master, bluegrass music fanatic, lover of all sports and horse racing, prankster, and storyteller, he lived life to the fullest. But there was nothing he enjoyed more than spending time with his family and friends. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 40 years, Susan Jane Watkins Gilbert. Also carrying on his legacy are his two daughters, Lisa Lynn Gilbert Williams and her husband Thomas Hart Williams (Lexington, KY) and Tracy Leigh Gilbert Billings and her husband Joshua Keith Billings (Atlanta, GA). Nothing made him smile more than being called "Pap" by 4 adoring grandchildren, Miller Howard Williams (8), Hudson Alexander Billings (4), Harris Patrick Williams (3), and Adele Jane Billings (2). He also leaves behind his four-legged friends, Carly, Scarlet, and Arkie. He is survived by three sisters, Judy Adams, Coshocton, Ohio, Kaye Alverson, Lexington, Kentucky and Diane Howard, Lexington, Kentucky; two brothers, Dan Howard, Springfield, Illinois and Michael Howard, Marysville, Ohio, and many nieces and nephews; . In addition to his family, Bruce will be missed by numerous friends as his larger-than-life and gregarious personality won over everyone he met. He is preceded in death by his mother and stepfather father, Arkie and Tesco Howard, his sister, Polly Howard, and close friends. Funeral Information On Saturday, March 15th, a memorial service will be held at 1:00pm with a life celebration following from 2:00pm-5:00pm. Both will take place at Clark Legacy Center, Brannon Crossing. An intimate burial service will take place at the family's private cemetery on Friday, March 14th.