Donna Jean Gilbert, 77

June 26, 2025

Donna Jean Gilbert, 77, beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at Oak Leaf Manor South Senior Living on June 26, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter.

Born in Virginia, Donna was known for her kind and generous spirit. She brought warmth and comfort to everyone she met with her southern accent that made everyone feel instantly at home.

In the early ‘70s Donna moved to Newark, Delaware, where she raised her family and built a life rooted in love.

She was an avid Elvis Presley fan and enjoyed doing crafts, ceramics, shopping and attending craft shows. Above all, Donna’s heart belonged to her family. They were her greatest pride and joy and she was her brightest when she was with them. She had a generous, kind heart and a sense of humor with a quick wit that made people laugh when they were around her. A beautiful woman inside and out, Donna always carried herself with dignity and grace. With the loving help of her daughter and many devoted caregivers, who took pride in helping her shine; she was always put together! She lit up every room she entered!

She spent over 30 years as a dedicated bank teller at M&T bank, where she became a familiar trusted face to generations of customers. Her work ethic, patience and cheerful demeanor made her a cherished colleague.

Donna leaves behind her children, Donald (Donna) Wood, and Rhonda (David) Schreck. She was preceded in death by her, late husband, Jim Gilbert,

and is lovingly remembered by his children: Jimmy (Melissa) Gilbert, Brenda (Russ)Threlkeld, and Dennis Gilbert. In addition, Donna is survived by her sister Patti (Tony)

Petrongolo, and brother Douglas Bunch Jr. Affectionately known as “Nanny,” Donna leaves behind her 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her granddaughter, Jessica Wood.

A private family celebration will be held where family and friends will gather to remember the remarkable woman she was. Donna will be deeply missed and forever loved.