Longtime Clinton Central High School football coach and teacher George Gilbert has passed away after being diagnosed with cancer two years ago. He died Tuesday, October 31, at his home in Kirklin. He was 68.
Gilbert, who resigned before he was getting ready to start his 40th year coaching in 2022, had an overall record of 230-196, including a mark of 121-101 in his years at Central. Gilbert had several other stops in his coaching career, including the 2013 team at Tri-Central, which won the Class 1A state championship by defeating Eastern Hancock 20-10 in the title game. In that state tournament run, Tri-Central defeated Clinton Central, Sheridan and Clinton Prairie in the sectional and defeated South Adams in the regional and Winamac in the Semi State.
In 2014, Tri-Central defeated Sheridan for the sectional title before falling to South Adams in the regional.
In his nine years at Tri-Central, Gilbert developed Tri-Central into a respected football program with winning seasons in five out of the seasons after going 0-10 during this first year in 2009, He was rehired at Clinton Central in 2020
In addition to his football coaching career, Gilbert also coached wrestling for 25 years and spent 22 years coaching track. He is a member of the Indiana High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. He was a member of the ISCA Hall of Fame Class of 2018, softball umpire for 37 years, public speaker for 10 years, author of “Team of One We Believe.” He was a long-time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church where he taught CCD Class. He was a car buff and helped organize Thursday Thunder in Frankfort and other car shows, and a member of the Street Rod Association.
Coach Gilbert, who coached both in Ohio and Indiana, grew up in Rensselaer, Indiana and graduated in 1973. He went on to play college football at both St. Joseph College and Manchester College where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1982 from IU Fort Wayne. He then attended Indiana University earning a Masters in Secondary Education.
Gilbert taught U.S. History, Health, Sociology, Psychology, World History, Physical Education and Weight Training.
Clinton Central Superintendent Jeremy Fewell issued the following statement about Gilbert.
“The Clinton Central School Corporation is deeply saddened to announce the passing of George Gilbert, a beloved retired teacher and a legendary figure in the world of high school varsity football coaching. Coach Gilbert, who dedicated over four decades of his life to enriching the lives of students, athletes, and the entire community.
“Coach Gilbert was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and inspiration to all who knew him. As both an educator and a coach, he left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and athletes, instilling in them not only the skills to excel on the football field but also the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
“Coach Gilbert’s impact extended far beyond the football field. He was known for his passion, integrity, and boundless enthusiasm for education and athletics. His tireless efforts to instill the virtues of character and perseverance in his students have left an enduring legacy that continues to shape the lives of those who had the privilege of being under his guidance.
“The Clinton Central School Corporation extends its heartfelt condolences to Coach Gilbert’s family and friends during this difficult time. The loss of this exceptional educator, mentor, and coach will be deeply felt throughout the entire community.”
Funeral services are as follows: The Rosary will be said at 3 p.m. Thursday, November 9, with visitation following from 4-8 p.m. at Goodwin Funeral Home, 200 S. Main Street, Frankfort. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, November 10, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 600 St. Mary’s Avenue, Frankfort. Father Paul Cochran and Pastor Shan Sheridan will officiate. Burial will follow in Rossville Cemetery, Rossville, Indiana.