Mary Ethelyn Gilbert

Mary Ethelyn Gilbert, fondly known as Mimi, passed away on December 4, 2023, at the age of 82. She was full of life and had an incredible passion for cooking, often delighting others with her delicious meals. Born on August 1, 1941, in Adel, GA, Mary was a beloved child care provider for many years, nurturing and caring for countless children in her community.

After retiring from her child care profession, Mary continued to make a positive impact as she worked at Cox Pharmacy, where she affectionately became known as Ms. Mary to many. Her warm smile and kindhearted nature endeared her to all those she met. Mary was of the Baptist faith.

Mary is survived by her loving children, Leslie Barclay of Moultrie, Bill Barclay and wife Teresa of Cairo, Mary Alice Bracewell and husband Marcus of Cairo, and Missy Hicks of Thomasville, along with her cherished grandchildren: Heather Bracewell, Kristina Hines (Jon), Trey Barclay (Jessica), Adrian Parker, Ethan Marchant, Brett Barclay (Kelly), Joe Hicks, and Cayden Prince. Her great-grandchildren, Gracie, Madisyn, Kylee, Dawson, Olivia, Kenley, Jack, Lorelai, Beckett, Hunter, and Rhett, brought immense joy to her life. Mary is also survived by her sisters, Dana Bunday and Debbie Rodriguez, and her special friend, Don Broce of Thomasville.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James "Jim" Howard Gilbert Sr., her sisters, Hilda Blanton and Lucille Stripling, and the father of her children, W.T. Barclay.

The funeral service to celebrate Mary's remarkable life will take place on December 7, 2023, at the Allen & Allen Celebration of Life Chapel at 2:00 pm. Pastor Brandon Smith will officiate. Prior to the service, friends and family can pay their respects during the visitation, which will be held at the same location from 1:00 pm until service time