James M. Gilbert Jr.

James Melvin "Bud" Gilbert Jr. age 90 of North Huntingdon, formerly of East McKeesport passed away peacefully at his home on December 10, 2023. He was born July 12, 1933, in Braddock, son of the late James and Emma (Morgan) Gilbert. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. Bud graduated from East McKeesport High School in 1953. He retired with 37 years of service from Bell Atlantic/Verizon as Associate Engineer. After retirement, he was a residential electrician. He was an active member of New Hope Presbyterian Church as former treasurer and member of the property team. Bud was a member of Shidle Lodge #601 of Free and Accepted Masons as former Tiler and Steward. He was also a member of Bromas golf and bowling leagues, and Tall Cedars of Westmoreland Forest #77, and Scottish Rite of Free Masonry-Gourgas Lodge. He was president and member of Manor Valley Oddballs Golf League and member of Hilltops Men's Golf League. Bud was past 1967 President and coach for PAL (Police Athletic League) baseball and basketball programs, and past president of Circleville VFD. He enjoyed his family and friends as well as golf, bowling, hunting and sports. Bud was preceded in death by his parents, James and Emma Morgan Gilbert, son Guy Gilbert, stepmother Minnie Smeltz Martin Gilbert, stepbrother Barry Martin. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan (Martinsek) Gilbert, sons Gary (Trudy), Gregory (Denise), and Glenn Gilbert, brother Dale Martin (Deanna), Clifford, sisters Louise Murray, Barbara Hughes, grandchildren, Michael, Garrett (Nina), Richard (Alexandra), Zachary (Kylie), Lindsey, Grace Gilbert and 3 great grandsons. Visitation and services will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 12pm to 2pm at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, Pa.