Elder Jesse Gilbert

Elder Jesse James Gilbert was born on July 25, 1948 to James and Maybelle Gilbert. He was known as “Shack” to his close friends. He received his formal education from Beardsley Middle School, and graduated from Rule High School in 1969. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He received an Honorable discharge on September 1, 1973 and returned home to Knoxville, TN. Jesse was a member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church for 38 years under the leadership of Dr. Elder Joe B Maddox. 

Jesse married Patricia Willis. And to their union, 5 children, Derrick (Omnie), Michelle, Jesse (Monica), Dorita, and Christine were born.

Under the leadership of Dr. Elder Joe B Maddox, Jesse was ordained as a minister. He graduated from Knoxville Interdemonitional Bible Baptist Institute in Knoxville, TN. He would then become the pastor at Mount View Baptist Church in Lexington, KY. Jesse later returned to Knoxville and assisted Rev. Eugene Carter at Greater Bush Grove Missionary Baptist Church for several years. 

Jesse is preceded in death by Deacon James and Maybelle Gilbert, and Ta’Shawn Gilbert. 

He leaves to cherish his memories children, Derrick (Omnie), Michelle, Jesse (Monica), and Christine; 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, aunt, Johnsie Dowell; mother of his children, Patricia Gilbert; sisters-n-law, Janice(Richard) Dobson, Glenda, Cooper, Gwendolyn Rivers, Deborah (Kenneth) Carter, Geraldine Howard, TaShawn Campbell (deceased), and Eva Faunteroy; brothers-n-law, Oscar and Lawrence Willis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends.

The family will receive friends Tuesday May 13, 2025 from 11:30 to 12:30 at New Hop[e Missionary Baptist Church, 2504 Cecil Avenue Knoxville, TN 37917, with funeral services to follow. Elder Timothy L. Maddox, Sr. officiating. Interment at Berry Highland South, 9010 E Simpson Rd, Knoxville, TN 37920. 

Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary.