Jeffrey J. Gilbert, 60

Jeffrey James Gilbert or “Gilly,” 60, of Sanbornton, left us to join his son Brady, chasing big bucks for eternity, on March 21, in his beloved Stockport, Ohio.

Jeff was born June 26, 1963, to Leo “Popeye” and Roseanne (Noel) Gilbert. He was the third of four boys. Jeff grew up in Sanbornton, being raised by his aunt and uncle, Winnie (Johnson) and Roger Gilbert, who were more like Mom and Dad.

Jeff had a passion for the woods at a very young age and started cutting cordwood for money around age 15. At 17, Jeff started boxing under the guidance of Dave Gates. Jeff was touted as an up-and-coming star in the lightweight division and participated in the Golden Gloves annual competition (twice) which is the best of the best of amateur boxing. The sport of boxing taught him many valuable life lessons.

Jeff was well known for many things — he was hardworking, humble, funny, loving and just the type of guy who would help anyone at any time. His smile and laugh would light up a room and oh ... his stories, not to mention some of his famous outfits. Most of us know him as the guy who was constantly talking to himself whether he was cutting down trees or just doing ordinary tasks. His smile was contagious, and his ability to make people laugh came with ease. Jeff loved to give nicknames to people, many of which cannot be spoken.

Jeff considered himself a simple man and was always his true authentic self. What you saw was what you got, but Jeff was anything but simple — he was simply the best.

Sanbornton would always be home, but the village of Stockport, Ohio, captured his heart. Jeff found his love of hunting in New Hampshire with his brother-in-law, Dickie Rowell. That passion brought him to Stockport, which to him was “Big Buck Country.” Jeff always had the best hunting stories and the mounts to back them up.

Jeff leaves behind a loving and blended family including “his girl” Chryss LaRoche; his daughter “Gert,” Ashley Templeton, and her husband Christopher; stepchildren Allison LaRoche and Larry Shaw and Logan LaRoche. He also leaves behind his chosen father, Roger Gilbert. Jeff took tremendous pride in his grandchildren and was a Grampy like no other. He had so much he wanted to teach them. His tribe included Cameron Gilbert, Ava and Corbin Alberts, Nevaeh Shaw, and baby Cohen Templeton. Brothers include John Gilbert (Elise) and Jody Gilbert; son-in-law Tim Alberts (Stacey); nephews Corey Bean (Kimmy), Josiah Gilbert (Pam and little “O”) and niece Mandie Hagan (Ian); as well as cousin Danielle Gilbert Hilson (Andrew).

Jeff also had additional “families” which include the LaChapelles, Lafond/Hill/Williams, the Advanced Paving family, and his beloved Davises of Stockport.

Jeff was predeceased by his only son, Brady Gilbert, a brother, Joseph Gilbert, and his greatest blessing, Winnie Gilbert.

The family wishes to thank all those who have reached out, shared stories and wrapped them in love and support during this difficult time. Jeff’s departure will leave a void in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held May 18, at the Merrimack Valley Railroad Function Hall in Northfield, from noon to 5 p.m. Please bring a good “Gilly” story to share. In lieu of flowers, Chryss and Ashley ask that you plant a tree in Jeff’s memory.

The family will be doing a celebration of life in Stockport, Ohio, at a later date.