Judy Kay Gilbert, 73, of Jacksonville, IL died Thursday, July 14, 2022, at Heritage Health. She was born Nov. 18, 1948, in Jacksonville, the daughter of Norman "PeeWee" and Joan Severns Merriman. She married Ron Gilbert on Jan. 10, 1970, and he survives. She is also survived by her daughter, Rhonda Joan Gilbert (fianc Darren Parker) of Springfield; three grandchildren, Alexis Joy Blackley, who held a special place in Judys heart, Shane Blackley, and Amber Blackley; five brothers, Tom (Sue Anne) Merriman of Arizona, Bill (Kim) Merriman of Virginia, Bert (Tammy) Merriman of Arizona, Robbie Merriman of Virginia, and Chris Merriman; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Mike Merriman, Larry Merriman (surviving wife Joyce of Virginia), and Jim Merriman. Mrs. Gilbert had worked at J. Capps & Sons, Hertzberg New Method Book Bindery, Bills Star Market, and had also operated a daycare out of her home, taking very special care of many children and their families over the years. Judy had been a member of Amvets Post 100 Auxiliary and American Legion Post 279 Auxiliary. A celebration of life gathering will be held 2-4 p.m. Sunday, July 17, 2022, at Amvets Post 100 in Jacksonville. A private burial will be held at a later date at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield. Memorials are suggested to Amvets Post 100. The Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Jacksonville is in charge of the arrangements. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com. . Celebration of Life Amvets Post 100 Sunday, July 17, 2022 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM ,