Harris Gilbert, ’55, 1931-2023
Harris Abram Gilbert
Harris Abram Gilbert passed away suddenly February 15, 2023. Born, raised and residing in Nashville nearly his entire life, he leaves a loving legacy of generosity, intellect and friendship. As an attorney and community leader Harris’ incredibly long list of accomplishments impacted numerous organizations and countless people. His true greatness though is found in his devotion to his family. Harris is preceded in death by his parents, Judge Charles and Freda Gilbert, and by his wife of 41 years, Dianne D. Gilbert. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer L. Gilbert, son-in-law John P. Ellersick, son Harris N. Gilbert, daughter-in-law Danielle M. Gilbert, grandchildren Joshua H. Gilbert and Sophia C. Gilbert, sister Pauline Gilbert Bader and brother Charles Gilbert, Jr. Having met on a blind date, Dianne and Harris married in 1963 and started a family building a home on his childhood street. Their life together was full of dedication to their children, time with friends, endless travel adventures and community service. An avid golfer, tennis player, cyclist, yogi, health nut, rose grower and ill-advised boat owner, Harris brought an indomitable spirit to every one of his passions. He encouraged all around him to take wonder in this world and pursue life with gusto and delight. His purest joy was time with his grandchildren; creating treasure hunts, playing monster, going swimming or handing out Oreo cookies to everyone at every sporting event. A graduate of Yale University and the University of Chicago Law School, Harris returned to his home to practice law.
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