Walter Maurice Gilbert Jr.

Walter was born in Galveston, Texas and was a lifelong resident of Hope Villa (Prairieville). Walter passed away at 7:24 PM Friday, May 25, 2018 in Baton Rouge at the age of 86. Walter graduated from the original Dutchtown High School in 1950 which was the first class to go to the 12th grade. After graduation Walter enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served in the Philippines during the Korean Conflict. Once stateside he was stationed at Rushmore Air Force Base until his honorable discharge in 1955. Walter returned to Hope Villa (Prairieville) to work as a printer for the State Times and Morning Advocate where he retired with 44 years of service. There will be a visitation on Monday May 28, 2018 at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Prairieville from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM. The visitation will resume on Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at Oak Grove Baptist Church from 9:00 AM until a celebration of Mr. Gilberts life at 11:00 AM celebrated by Rev. John Carrigan and Rev. Roger Waggoner. The interment will follow at the church cemetery. Walter is survived by his wife Esther Alleman Gilbert of Prairieville, 1 daughter: Susan Robert of Gonzales, 2 sons and 2 daughters-in-law: Wade and Evonne Guedry Gilbert and Steven and Jeanine Vicknair Gilbert both of Prairieville, 6 grandchildren: Joshua Lavigne, Zachary Lavigne, Jessica Gilbert, Aaron Gilbert, Dylan Gilbert and Laken Gilbert and 3 great grandchildren: Kaelyn Lavigne, Alexis Lavigne and Brandt Lavigne. Walter is preceded in death by his parents: Walter Maurice, Sr. and Rita Delaune Gilbert, 1 brother: Charles Edward Gilbert and his first spouse: Judith Jensen Gilbert. Serving as pallbearers for Walter will be Joshua Lavigne, Zachary Lavigne, Aaron Gilbert, Dylan Gilbert, Taylor Bruno and Caleb Bruno. The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at St. Joseph Carpenter House for the exceptional care during this difficult time. If you would like to offer condolences for the family please visit www.oursofh.com. Ourso Funeral Home, Gonzales is in charge of the arrangements. 225-647-8608.