The late Thomas Gilbert was from Kelowna, British Columbia. Thomas tragically passed away last week due to a sudden brain aneurysm. His family and friends are mourning the loss of an extraordinary father and husband, who left behind his wife, Davina, and their ten children.
Shayla Smith, Thomas’s sister-in-law, has organized a GoFundMe campaign to support Davina and the children during this difficult time. The campaign, titled "Tribute to Thomas Gilbert: Family Support Campaign," aims to raise $20,000 to cover living expenses and funeral costs. As of today, $560 CAD has been raised from eight donations.
Thomas was known for his unwavering dedication to his family and his community. He was a loving father who always prioritized the happiness and well-being of his children. His love for sports and his generosity in helping others were well-known traits. Jasper Taylor, a family friend, expressed his grief and support on Facebook, saying, "My father recently passed away, leaving unexpected expenses for my mother. Please consider donating to our GoFundMe to help cover these costs and share this campaign widely. Your support means everything to us."
Shayla Smith’s message on the GoFundMe page highlights the family’s struggle: "Thomas worked tirelessly throughout his life and was known for his willingness to lend a hand in the community, especially when it came to children and family. He was a larger-than-life figure with a profound love for sports and a heart of gold." She urges anyone who can to contribute or share the fundraiser to ease the financial burden on Davina and her children.
The community’s response has been heartfelt, with donations ranging from $5 to $50 so far. This outpouring of support underscores the impact Thomas had on those around him and the collective effort to help his family navigate this challenging time.
Note:This post was written and edited by Violet Nguyen, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.