A graveside service for Melvin Warren Gilbert, 86, of Saint Jo, was held on February 10, at Starkey Cemetery in Montague County. The service was led by Minister Frank Johnson. Serving as pallbearers were Don Thomas, Trey Wilkins, Brian Wolf, Steve Gillis, Andrew Grey and Keith Brookshire.
Mr. Gilbert died on February 7, 2024. He was born on October 11, 1937, in Point, to Lola Bell Anderson and Willie Warren Gilbert. He enjoyed working and had various careers throughout his life including as an installer for Lone Star Gas, a Dallas Police Officer, and a 3M Salesman. Covering four states, Mel sold diamonds and solid jewelry for Town and Country Jewelry. In 1968, he met Lois Doshier and they married on May 3, 1969 in Lone Oak. He found his niche buying and selling salvage and distressed freight. He created Gilbert Enterprises in Dallas, and he and his family operated a wholesale warehouse selling to other salvage dealers for nearly 50 years. They operated retail locations in Lone Oak, Point, Balch Springs, Garland and Saint Jo. He dedicated 35 years to Gilbert’s Freight Outlet in Saint Jo. Due to age and health issues, he downsized by operating Mel’s Knife Shop.
Mr. Gilbert loved traveling, riding motorcycles and farming. He was a self-taught man who enjoyed collecting, history and great conversation with family and friends. He also loved anything old west and watching the show “Gun Smoke.”
Mr. Gilbert is survived by his wife; sons, Todd Gilbert and wife Rachel, and Wayne Gilbert and wife Kaye; grandchildren, Heather Gilbert, Holli Gilbert and Matthew Gilbert; great-grandchildren, Hayden Gilbert and Henley Gilbert; and numerous extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Arnice Earnhart; and grandson, Brady Watson.