Family honors Arthur Gilbert’s life after deadly wrong-way I-75 crash in Collier County

COLLIER COUNTY, Fla. —

Friends and family gathered to celebrate Arthur Gilbert’s life on what would have been his 97th birthday Thursday, weeks after he died in a crash on I-75 in Collier County.

Troopers said 24-year-old Genise Taylor was reportedly driving drunk the wrong way on the interstate in March when she crashed into Gilbert’s vehicle.

Nearly a month later, loved ones shared stories and memories of Gilbert through laughter, tears, and gratitude for having known him.

"Everyone speaking and the music, the background of photos of Art, I couldn't have asked for a better celebration of his life," Pamela Gilbert, Arthur’s wife, said.

Pamela Gilbert was surrounded by people who loved and respected her late husband. She said she felt his presence during the celebration.

"Oh, he is in the room. His ashes are in the room. I said, 'Art, we are going to the party.' I said, 'You'll be with me forever wherever I go, Art,'" she said.

Arthur Gilbert would have been 97 years old Thursday.

Taylor is due back in court on Monday at 8:30 a.m. She faces charges of DUI manslaughter along with multiple other charges.

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