Harold Randolph Gilbert

ROCKY MOUNT – Harold Randolph Gilbert, age 88, passed away peacefully at UNC Nash Hospital on Wednesday April 1, 2026 with his son, Randy, at his bedside.  Born in Nash County, NC on December 22, 1937, he was the son of the late Joseph Randolph Gilbert and Edith Thelma Ellis Gilbert.  He was also preceded in death by his brother, Joey Gilbert.

Harold retired from LabCorp with nearly 37 years of service.  He was an avid golfer, musician, singer and a deep sports enthusiast.  Harold loved Rocky Mount and often reminisced about growing up at 10 West Elm Street in the Mill Village along the Tar River.  He always lived to the fullest.  Harold was fun loving, charismatic and gregarious.  He loved people and people loved him.  Harold was proud that he was able to thrive in his advanced years never being idle, always independent and self-sufficient.

Harold is survived by his wife of 26 years, Cathy Gilbert; his son, Randy Gilbert and wife, Wendy; his grandson, Colby Gilbert and wife, Brianna; his great-grandson, Calder Gilbert; his step-mother, Julia Gilbert; his brother, Marty Gilbert and wife, Jenny; and his beloved dog, Buddy.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Harold’s life will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services.  Entombment will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.  Visitation with the family will be from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Harold’s memory to Edgecombe-Nash Humane Society, PO Box 1783, Rocky Mount, NC  27802.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.