Richard Gilbert, 78, of Llano died Nov. 16, 2015

Richard Gilbert, 78, of Llano, Texas, passed away Nov. 16, 2015.

He graduated from Burkburnett High School, played basketball for Decatur Junior College and received a bachelor’s degree from Howard Payne College and a master’s degree from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos. He retired after 33 years in Texas public education, serving four years in Gustine, two years in Killeen and 27 years in Llano.

He was active in the Llano Lions Club and the Valley Spring Volunteer Fire Department and served as deacon for First Baptist Church in Llano. He was awarded the Llano Jacket for Life in 1998.

Richard was a loving father and a devoted husband. He led his family by example of good character, fairness and faith. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Richard is survived by wife of 55 years, Gerry Partin Gilbert; son, Kelly Gilbert and wife April of Junction; daughters, Jana Weiland and husband Craig of Riviera and Jill Payne and husband Larry of Sonora; grandchildren, Nicole Walts and husband Joe, Victoria Payne and fiancé Garrett Watkins, Cody Weiland, Dallas Payne, Corbyn Gilbert and Kyle Weiland; great-grandchild, Siler Walts; sister, Sherry Smith; brother, Fred Gilbert and wife Elda; mother-in-law, Ruby Partin; brothers-in-law, Lanny Partin and wife June, Walt Partin and wife Brenda and John Partin and wife Nelda; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Goldie Gilbert, and father-in-law, Fred Partin.

The family suggests that donations be made to the Llano Lions Club, First Baptist Church, the Backpack Buddies for Kids food programs or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Waldrope-Hatfield-Hawthorne Funeral Home, 307 E. Sandstone in Llano, (325) 247-4300. Email whhfuneral1@verizon.net with condolences.