Betty Jo Gilbert, beloved daughter of the late Turner Gilbert, Jr. and Minnie Lee David Gilbert, was born in Albany, Georgia on May 14, 1961.

She received her formal education in the public schools of Dougherty County, graduating from Monroe High School in the class of 1979.

Having professed her belief and faith in the Lord as a youth, she was baptized and received the "right hand of fellowship"  into the body of Christ.   She was a faithful member of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church who willingly worked wherever needed.

Betty Jo was a very independent person who had an everlasting love for her children.  Those who encountered her often described her as a caring, hardworking mother who provided unconditionally for her family.  For more than 20 years, she was a loyal and dedicated employee of Western Sizzlin.   No matter what the task, she took great pride in a job well done.

BJ, as she was affectionately called by friends and family, was a source of encouragement and joy to everyone she met.  She had a heart of gold and impacted many lives and families in the community.    Her home was a revolving  door for family and friends, and they all loved her dearly.  One of her joys of life was cooking and her table was   always spread not only to family, but to anyone in need.  BJ had an extremely passionate love for flowers.  She was often found enjoying the outdoors, tending to her flowers and plants, or giving "flower care" instructions to neighbors and friends.  She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of being a part of her life.

On Saturday, June 8, 2019, BJ quietly transitioned to eternal rest.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by six siblings, James Edward Gilbert, Emory Gilbert, Alfonzo Gilbert, Fred Edward Gilbert, Marcus T. Johnson, and Ruby Nell Gilbert.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by her children, Dominique N. Gilbert and Rantavious T. Gilbert of Albany, GA; siblings, Pinkie Mae (Ollie) Moore, Lula Mae Gilbert, Pearlene Gilbert, Georgia Hilson, and Latricia A. Gilbert all of Albany, GA, Ralph Gilbert of South Carolina, Jacquelyn (Jeffery) McDowell of Atlanta, GA, and Christopher A. Johnson of Louisville, KY; sister-in-law, Thelma Gilbert; god-sister, Eddwiner Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.