Gilbert J Willoughby

Gilbert Joseph Willoughby, 90, of Louisville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Gilbert was born into a large family that gave him the nickname of “Tommy.” He grew up in Portland, and cherished his lifelong friendships with his buddies who would remain close, and meet for coffee weekly telling their stories until he was the last one left, and he sure missed them.

He was a member of Westport Road Baptist Church. He was a graduate of Shawnee High School Class of 1953, and it was there that he met his beautiful wife, Barbara Ann Long. They were married for 60 years before she preceded him in death, and he missed her dearly. They had 3 children, but son, Alan Lee Willoughby, also preceded him in death and he missed him greatly. He is survived by son Robert "Joey" Willoughby and wife Sarah, his daughter Cathy Weaver and husband Bobby, his granddaughter Jennifer Dowdy and husband David, his grandsons Robbie Weaver and wife Whitney, Joshua Willoughby and wife Becca, and Jacob Willoughby, as well as great-grandchildren Lauren, David, Liam, Annabelle, Olivia, and Colton. His sister, Debby Deutsch, also survives him as well as cherished nieces and nephews.

He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching sports on TV. He especially liked basketball, bowling and shooting pool. He loved music, where he could often be found on the dance floor, moving with the oldies that he loved so much. In quieter moments, Gilbert enjoyed watching movies, and reading.

A visitation for Gilbert will be held Friday, December 27, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40218, followed by a funeral at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gilbert's memory may be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital, Day Spring, and WHAS Crusade for Children.

The family would especially like to thank the wonderful staff that cared for him at Jefferson Place with kindness and compassion during the last year of his life.