Elsie Kay Gilbert, born on December 1, 1940, peacefully passed away on April 18, 2026, in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Her life was marked by dedication, warmth, and a profound commitment to both her community and family.

Elsie was a cherished bookkeeper for the Shawnee Glass Company, a position she held with dedication since 1961. Over the decades, her meticulous work and steadfast reliability earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike.

A woman of vibrant spirit and deep loyalty, Elsie was a faithful member of her sorority, Bata Sigma Pi - Laureate Alpha Tau, for over twenty-five years. Her bond with her sorority sisters was a source of great joy and comfort throughout her life. In addition to her sorority ties, Elsie was an ardent supporter of Oklahoma Baptist University’s basketball teams. Her passion for the sport saw her traveling extensively across the country to cheer on both the girls’ and boys’ teams, exemplifying her spirited enthusiasm and unwavering support.

Family was at the heart of Elsie's life. She cherished spending time with them and was deeply devoted to her loved ones. She is survived by her three children: Randal Gregory Gilbert and his wife Shelley, Richard Todd Gilbert and his wife Robin, and Kristy Gilbert and her husband Garrson. Her siblings include her sister Linda McGehee and her husband Sam. Elsie’s legacy is also carried forward by her five grandchildren, Chris, Brett, Logan, Kennedy, and Bristol, as well as six great-grandchildren: Blakely, Koan, Lawson, Khylee, Addie, and Jaxson.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, Allen and Jewel Grider; her beloved husband, Laddie Gilbert; and her granddaughter, Mckenzie Gilbert. Their memories remain close to her surviving family and friends.

A memorial service honoring the life of Elsie Kay Gilbert will be held on April 25, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at University Baptist Church, located at 2515 N Kickapoo Ave., Shawnee, OK 74804. This gathering will provide an opportunity for all who knew her to celebrate her enduring legacy and the profound impact she had on their lives.

Elsie's legacy will be remembered by all who knew her—a testament to a life well-lived, rich with love, friendship, and an unwavering spirit of support and kindness. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those she touched.