06/08/2026
Captain Richard “Rick” M. Gilbert, MD, USN (Ret.), age 70, of Enterprise, Alabama, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026.
A graveside service with full military honors will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 9:00 AM.
Born on September 27, 1955, in Maryland, Rick was the son of Robert M. Gilbert and Helen Knarr Gilbert. Throughout his life, he embodied a spirit of service, excellence, and compassion that touched countless lives.
After earning his medical degree, Rick answered the call to serve his country through the United States Navy. Over a distinguished 28-year military career, he rose to the rank of Captain while serving as a physician in some of the Navy’s most specialized and demanding fields. He also served as an Undersea Medical Officer, completing advanced diving medicine training and caring for military divers while helping ensure the health and safety of those operating in challenging underwater environments. Rick earned his Army flight surgeon wings as a Civil Service physician at Lyster Army Health Clinic after retirement from the Navy.
His assignments took him around the world, including service overseas in London, England. Along the way, he earned numerous military decorations and commendations in recognition of his leadership, professional excellence, and faithful service. Whether caring for sailors, Marines, aviators, or divers, Rick approached every responsibility with skill, humility, and genuine concern for those entrusted to his care.
Following his retirement from the Navy in 2004, Rick continued his life’s work as a physician, devoting himself to caring for others. Friends, patients, and colleagues alike knew him as a compassionate doctor, trusted advisor, and dependable friend whose greatest joy came from helping people.
Above all, Rick loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured time spent with those he loved most. His gentle nature, sense of humor, wisdom, and unwavering support will be remembered by all who knew him.
Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Knarr Gilbert.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Laura Setnik Gilbert of Enterprise; his father, Robert M. Gilbert; his children, Lauren Gilbert (Trae Hilburn), Jordan O’Neil (Bryan), Madison McPeake (Ethan), and Brooks Gilbert; his brother, Greg Gilbert (Gennis); his grandchildren, Parker and Myles; and one O’Neil on the way, expected later this year. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members, dear friends, former colleagues, and fellow servicemen and women who were blessed by his friendship and care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 Or https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=default&lang=en .
Captain Richard “Rick” M. Gilbert lived a remarkable life of service to God, country, family, and fellow man. Whether beneath the sea, in the skies, in the clinic, or at home with those he loved, he answered every calling with honor, compassion, and dedication. His legacy will continue in the lives he healed, the sailors he served beside, and the family he cherished.
Sorrells Funeral Home and Crematory of Enterprise, (334) 347-9598, is in charge of arrangements.
