Joan Elizabeth Murrin Gilbert, 79, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2023. The family will have a time of visitation to greet friends on Friday, April 21, 2023, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at FairHaven Funeral Home. A celebration of her beautiful life will begin at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel, Chaplin Lisa Johnson will officiate.
Mrs. Gilbert was born on July 24, 1943, in St. John's, Newfoundland. She was one of twelve children born to Chesley and Kyra Murrin. She came to the United States in 1960, married and had three children. Joan was a jack of all trades! There wasn't anything she couldn't do! She was the first female police officer in the history of Gray, Georgia. She was a house parent at a children's home, activities director at nursing homes, phlebotomy tech, security officer, butcher, floor stock worker, home painter, and seamstress to name a few.
Joan was best known for her personality! She always had a smile on her face, and she loved being around family! She always put others before herself and was a model mother and grandmother. Her genuine, unique way with words could comfort the world. She would give the shirt off her back if someone needed it, she would often say. That's just who she was. Speaking of unique, Joan had a taste for the oddest of foods, such as fried liver and onions, rutabagas, black licorice, vinegar and fries, mustard and sugar sandwiches and her favorite, thick cut fried bologna sandwiches! She often joked about it being better than a wish sandwich!
"Hey! Don't knock it 'til you try it my son!" Joan was a true Newfie to her core.
She is survived by her son, Mitch Mack (Irma), daughter Lora Gonzalez, son, Marty Mack (Lisa), and grandson Michael Gonzalez (Christy). Joan has 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents and several siblings.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.
Friends may sign the online register at www.fairhavenmacon.com.
FairHaven Funeral Home and Cremation Services has charge of arrangements.