Gilbert Hay

Gilbert Hay III passed away peacefully after a long illness on February 8, 2026. Gilbert was a proud and devoted husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife, Charlene; daughter, Virginia Zimmerman; son, Turner Hay; twin grandsons, Turner and Grady Zimmerman; and Samantha, his loving Boykin Spaniel. Samantha will miss him and their long walks in Fletcher Park and Carolina Beach.

As a Raleigh native, he graduated from Broughton High School and North Carolina State University. While at N.C. State - he was a member of Lambda Chi Fraternity. He transitioned from employment at NCSU to the automotive/fleet industry. He was a dedicated employee at Bobby Murray Chevrolet and then to Capital Chevrolet Automotive Group.

Gilbert will be missed dearly, but remembered for his big presence, his smile, sense of humor and he cared deeply for family and friends until the end. Although he will be missed dearly, we are grateful for all our memories of his voice and infectious personality. And to quote Gilbert, "GO PACK!"

The family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Michael LeCompte and staff, Dr. Rommel Lu and his special nurse, Jennifer. Thank you to the nursing staff of the UNC Rex 5th Cancer Floor and the care they provided during his battle with pneumonia. His favorite nurse, Taya Dulclich, RN, Oncology Certified Nurse, gave him peace and comfort with her compassion and knowledge of his health journey.

A Celebration of Gilbert's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 17th at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, 2209 Fairview Road, Raleigh, NC 27608. The service will be led by Pastor Matt Ashburn. A visitation will be held in the Fellowship Hall at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, to celebrate Gilbert's life, memorial gifts may be made to HBUMC Pastors Discretionary Fund or to the V Foundation for Cancer Research, 14600 Western Parkway, Cary, NC 27513. "Don't Give Up, Don't Ever Up!"

Arrangements provided by Bryan-Lee, 831 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh, NC 27604.