Patricia L. Gilbert, 87, of Cross Hill, passed away on November 2, 2026, at Madison Heights Memory Care in Evans, Georgia. 

Born in Hilton, Oklahoma, she was the daughter of Buck and Thelma Thompson. 

Patricia grew up in a large family with one sister and five brothers. She graduated from Jackson High School in Jackson, South Carolina, and went on to work as an executive secretary for Bank of America, where she remained until her retirement. After spending 42 years in Augusta, Georgia, she and her husband moved to Lake Greenwood, where they enjoyed life on the lake. She loved to read, was devoted to her church family at Rice Memorial Baptist Church and especially enjoyed traveling. Over the years, her adventures took her to Hawaii, Europe, Alaska, and the Caribbean. She especially loved visiting Pigeon Forge and Dollywood, keeping season passes and making several trips each year. She enjoyed seeing new places, making memories, and spending time doing the things she loved. 

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, James Gilbert; son, Michael Gilbert (Jennifer); daughter, Mischelle Guthrie (Walton); and grandchildren, Ian Guthrie, James Guthrie, Mary Elizabeth Gilbert, and John Herschel Gilbert. 

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Harley Funeral Home officiated by Dr. Dale Avant. 

The family will receive friends before the service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. 

A private burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patricia’s honor to Project Lifesaver by visiting or mailing your contribution to the Laurens County Sheriff's Office at 216 West Main Street, Laurens, SC 29360.