Melvin Ayers Gilbert Obituary
Melvin "Mel" Ayers Gilbert hit his final and greatest homerun on June 28, 2026, in Layton, Utah, surrounded by his family. Mel was born in Ogden, Utah December 12, 1949, to the late Edna Pauline Melvin Gilbert and Arthur Gilbert. Shortly after Mel's birth, his family moved back to Columbus, Georgia where Mel grew up playing football, baseball, and softball. Mel graduated from Jordan Vocational High School in Columbus, GA in 1968. Mel was the fourth of six children. He was preceded by a sister and two brothers.
Growing up in Georgia, Mel and his family loved music, enjoyed camping, playing sports, and were very active members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints. Mel was a Star Scout who enjoyed all activities in the outdoors.
Many happy memories occurred on ballfields. Mel loved to play softball, and continued that love through coaching women's and girl's softball.
Mel met the love of his life on a volleyball court in Salt Lake City, Utah. On January 23, 1981, he married Dion Michele Wilson in the Salt Lake Temple, for all eternity. They were blessed with two daughters, Diloné and Terrin. Mel loved his family and continued to do anything to support them. He was a proud Papa to his grandsons Remi, and Dominic, and the best grand-pup Chinook. They brought so much joy to his life, and vicariously lived through them.
Mel was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints and held many callings through the years. Some of his favorite callings were working with children as a Nursery Leader and Ward Activities Committee Chairman (he loved a good party!). He had a desire to help others be prepared and enjoyed his calling as a Ward Emergency Preparedness Coordinator. Mel had a deep testimony of his Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Gilbert and Edna Pauline Melvin Gilbert. His siblings, Betty Sue Gilbert, Lawrence Ward Gilbert, Donald Wayne Gilbert, Sister-in-law Caroline K. Pugmire. Daughter Christal Kranpitz.
Mel is survived by his wife, D. Michele Gilbert, daughters, Terrin Gilbert and Diloné Gilbert Mouledous (Mark). His two grandsons, Remigio V. Mouledous and Dominic A. Mouledous, and his favorite grand-dog, Chinook. His two sisters, Velda C. McDonald (Kent) and Melody J. Rosenwinkel (Larry). Sister-in-law Faye Cosson Gilbert. Mother-in-law, Dion E. Wilson. A large, extended family he loves and cherishes.
Mel, generous as always, was able to donate his eyes for research. The Lions in conjunction with the University of Utah, will put them to great use. Mel's name will be added to the memorial pillars on the Salt Lake City Library Block with other donors.
Mel is loved and will be missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
