Lois J. Gilbert

Gilbert - Lois J., Johnstown, transitioned from this life to the next on October 10, 2023. She was born on January 6, 1937 in Windber, Pennsylvania, daughter of V. Merle Sr. & Gladys L. (Yost) Stewart. Along with her parents, Lois was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Terry D. Gilbert; infant son, Terry D. Gilbert Jr.; infant great-grandson, Desmond M. Gallo; brother, V. Merle (Vic) Stewart Jr; and brother-in-law, David Watters. Those cherishing her life include daughters, Marcia Shetler (husband David) of New Paris, Ohio; Beth Adoette (partner Matthew Finger) of Pawtucket, Rhode Island; grandchildren, Meagan Shetler (companion Laura Brown), Morgantown, West Virginia; Matthew Shetler (wife Kylie), Dayton, Ohio; Ethan Gallo (wife Nicole), Westport, Massachusetts; and Anna Gallo, Dartmouth, Massachusetts; great-grandchildren, Macey Shetler, Lola Shetler, Emery Shetler, Lilah Gallo, Avalena Gallo, and Elliana Gallo; sister, Sally Stewart, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; sister-in-law Roberta (Bobbie) Stewart, Ashburn, Virginia; special in-laws, Charles and Myrna Gilbert, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; and Cynthia Watters, Johnstown, Pennsylvania; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives from the Stewart and Gilbert families; and many special friends. Throughout her life, Lois creatively combined raising a family with many imaginative and altruistic pursuits with perseverance and grace. Lois graduated from Richland High School, Johnstown, Pennsylvania in 1954 and attended the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. She was an active member of Oakland Church, where she participated in the adult choir, served as a youth leader, and created “Puppets for the Prince”, a traveling puppet show by youth. She also developed an historical display for the congregation. Lois and her husband, Terry were energetic advocates for a thriving Johnstown and surrounding communities. They were involved with the Christian ministry, New Day, Inc. in its earliest days with Lois establishing thrift shops in two New Day locations and the Christmas gift wrap booth. Together they taught the Christian Financial Concepts Program at New Day and many other churches. Both served as volunteer interpreters at the Johnstown Flood National Memorial. They were enthusiastic supporters of Arbutus Park Manor, their final residence. After Terry’s death, Lois continued the work of supporting the Manor by establishing a flea market that raises funds for the needs of Manor residents. She was an active member of the Arbutus Park Manor Auxiliary, serving as Auxiliary President at the time of her death. Lois and Terry were antique car collectors and enthusiasts and avid travelers, often combining these two interests. In the Johnstown area, they helped establish the Flood City Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America and were members of the Florida Flywheelers Antique Engine Club in Fort Meade, Florida. They were leaders and held communications responsibilities for both organizations. Whether involved with family, philanthropic efforts, or personal interests, inviting persons to strengthen their faith was Lois and Terry’s ultimate goal. A great cloud of heavenly and earthly witnesses has been inspired by their lives and testimonies. Lois was the happiest when she knew that God was using her to make a difference. The family expresses deep gratitude for the dedicated and faithful staff at Arbutus Park Manor who were caring companions over the last 18 months as Lois fought a courageous and gracious battle with ovarian cancer, and for the staff of AseraCare Hospice as they walked alongside the family in these last difficult days. Lois has not lost. She has gained her reward as a good and faithful servant. Well, well done. The family will receive friends on Monday, October 23, 2023 from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, (Richland) Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and, on Tuesday, October 24, from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m., prior to the celebration of Lois’s life at 11:00 a.m. at the Oakland Church, 1504 Bedford Street, Johnstown, Pennsylvania. with Rev. Randy Bain officiating. Gifts in honor of Lois can be made to Arbutus Park Manor Auxiliary, New Day, Inc., and Oakland Church. Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com. For those unable to attend the service, live streaming will be available at

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