of Batesville, AR
June 10, 1925 - May 3, 2020
Dr. Don Herbert Gilchrist, 94, of Batesville passed away Sunday, May 3, 2020.
Don was born June 10, 1925 in Wellsburg, West Virginia to Fredrick Alexander Gilchrist and Mary Virginia (Lucas) Gilchrist. He graduated from Brooke High School in 1943. Immediately after high school, He enlisted in the Army during World War II, where he served in the Pacific Theater until 1946. Gilchrist received the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Bronze Star.
Gilchrist moved to Chicago and graduated from Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine in 1951. He practiced Podiatry in Chicago from 1951-1954 and there he met Earlene McDonald, who was a nurse for the Santa Fe Railroad. The two married on June 27, 1958 in Batesville. Their daughters, Amy and Beth were born in Chicago in 1959 and 1962, respectively. He continued to practice in Chicago until 1964.
The Gilchrist family moved back to Batesville in 1964. Dr. Gilchrist practiced Podiatry in Batesville from 1965 until 2010 when he retired. An involved community member, Gilchrist was an active member in the Batesville Kiwanis Club for 50 years. It 1996, he was recognized by Kiwanis International and awarded the George H. Hixon Fellowship Award. Gilchrist was a member of the American Legion, VFW, and an early Mason. He was also a board member of the Batesville Federal Savings and Loan and served on the Batesville Regional Airport Commission, the Batesville Housing Commission, and the Batesville Planning Commission. He was a devoted fan of the Batesville Pioneers Football Team.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Earlene (McDonald) Gilchrist; and two brothers, Norman Gilchrist and Warren Gilchrist.
Survivors include his two daughters, Amy Lewis and Beth Miller (Bubba) both of Batesville; four grandchildren, Landon Reeves, Mason Reeves, Madison Owens, and Sydney Lewis; five great-grandchildren, Maddox Reeves, Coven Owens, Lathan Owens, Parker Reeves, and Collin Reeves; one brother, Dr. Keith A. Gilchrist of Aurora Colorado; as well as nieces and nephews; he was also like a second father to Deann Coleman and Jan Hicks.
Honorary pallbearers are Stu Smith, Batesville Kiwanis Club, Coach Dave King and the Batesville Pioneer Football Team, Dr. Jordan Weaver, Heidi Machen, Sharon Wilkins, and Dr. Bruce Berkheimer.
There will be a private graveside service held for the family under the direction of Roller-Crouch Funeral Home of Batesville with Lyndal Waits officiating.
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35 Condolence(s)
John And Pam Bryant
Saturday, August 15, 2020
Pam and I are sad to hear of Dr Gilcrest’s passing. We will always remember his friendship to my Dad, Duffie Bryant and his kindness to us when we came into town to visit.
Robert Ford, Jr.
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
I am deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of my dear friend, Don. It was an honor to call him "friend". My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this time of loss and grief.
Sincerely,
Robert Ford, Jr
(formerly long-time resident of Batesville, AR)
Bob & Connie Davis
Friday, May 8, 2020
Amy and Beth,
Sorry to learn of your Father's passing, he was not only a great guy but a great friend along with your Mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Bob & Connie
Bruce Berkheimer
Friday, May 8, 2020
As a resident physician early in 1994, I called Dr Gilchrist for advice on where in Arkansas to open up my practice. I am grateful that he pointed me to Searcy. Even more than his professional mentoring over the years,, I have appreciated his continued kindness shown to me.
Prayers of comfort to all of his family members.
The world has lost a good man, a good family has lost their patriarch and my profession has lost a pioneer.
Jack Sanders
Thursday, May 7, 2020
So sorry for your loss. While we were not well acquainted, I loved this man. My walk to my football seat has never been the same since he became unable to attend games. A true fan and a fine man !
Karen Miller
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
So sorry for your loss. My dad while working in construction on the hospital always talked about Dr. Gilchrist and what a great doctor he was. Our thoughts are with you and your family. Love you.
Kay Wolford longenbach
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Amy and Beth, so sorry. It’s always hard to lose a parent. Will be thinking of you and lifting up prayers for comfort and peace. Your dad was a very nice man. Love to you both and your families. â¤ï¸
Rickey Medlock
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Gilchrist. He was one of my most beloved patients.
My thoughts are with you.
Connie duncan
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Sorry for your loss I will be praying for you and your family I know the pain of losing a parent it gets better with time
Kristi Skinner Johnson
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Dearest Beth, Amy, and families,
Your dad was a bright spot in this world for sure. Beth, I remember Don making us “coffee†in the mornings when I spent the night. I also remember him taking care of your mom so lovingly. Don Gilchrist was a true gentleman and his kindness lives on in you. Love and light, Kristi
Theresa “Harmon†Branscum
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
My Deepest Sympathy to Beth , Amy and all the family. Mr.Gilchrist was such a kind soul, a inspiration to many. Prayers for peace and comfort today and the days ahead.
Peggy pearce
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Sorry for your loss. Prayers for comfort! Peggy Pearce
Betty Burge Cockrill
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
My thoughts and prayers are with each of your families. Happy
Joe McAdams
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
I am very sorry for your loss Amy, Beth and family, I had the pleasure of meeting your Dad a couple of times, a really good guy. Prayers for the family.
Ron and Nina Stephens
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Beth and Family , Nina and I are so sad to hear this , No words can fill the void that exists in you Life now , Thank God for the time with him , and all the fond memories , May Jesus Christ our Lord and savior , comfort you during this time !
JANET TOSH BILL ESTES
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Ms Beth and Amy, i am sooo very sorry to hear of your loss... what a wonderful life he lived and the loving family and friends he had throughout his life time. Our thoughts and prayers are always with you..
Cheryl Gilchrist Murphy
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Don Herbert Gilchrist was a remarkable man. I have so many fond memories of Uncle Don - his strength, loyalty, kindness, dedication to family and friends, and his wonderful sense of humor. Although he has left these earthly bounds to rejoin with so many beloved family and friends, he will always be in our hearts. Prayers for peace and comfort for the all of the Gilchrist family and the many friends as we carry on.
Kay Skinner Himbard
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Amy & Beth and families - so sorry for your loss. I remember your dad fondly. He fitted me for corrective shoes in Jr High so I knew him both professionally and personally. May God bless you and comfort you with precious memories.
Eleanor Royer
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
I am so sorry that I did not get to know Dr. Gilchrist. Much love to the family.
Ed Lovejoy
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
I am very sorry to hear of Dr. Gilchrist passing. I had to pleasure of knowing him personally back in the 60's and used his services a couple times. I always enjoyed speaking with him anytime he came by the service station on main street before I left Batesville.
I am saddened by by his obituary and express my sincere condolences to the entire family.
Beth Trumble-Anderson
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
So sorry to hear about your father’s passing. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Beth Trumble-Anderson
Edie Staffileno
Monday, May 4, 2020
Dear Amy, Beth and families...I am so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. We sure did love he and your mom as well as both of you and have so many happy memories of the "good times on Marianna Street" every summer. We looked forward to your visits every year. You two girls were such a blessing to your parents and the loving care you gave them was special. One of the funniest memories I can recall is the year your Dad put the nice ripe on Freddie's green tomato plants and the watermelon in the cucumber patch. He always loved teasing him and although it is so hard for you, Freddie will be there to welcome him in his heavenly home. May God Bless you as you grieve. I will keep you in my prayers.
Regina Bryant
Monday, May 4, 2020
I was sad to hear of your dad's passing; he was such a good man! He and your mother were both wonderful people! I hope and pray for strength and comfort for you all. I know he will be missed by many. God bless you. Regina Rowe Bryant
Jan Burrow Qualls
Monday, May 4, 2020
You are all in my thoughts and prayers
Jan Burrow Qualls
Monday, May 4, 2020
You are all in my thoughts and prayers
Martha McGinnis Healey
Monday, May 4, 2020
Amy and Beth,
The world has lost a wonderful Christian gentleman and Batesville has lost one of its most productive citizens. I'll always picture Dr. Gilchrist smiling, even when he was digging into my feet. After moving from Batesville I unfortunately had to see three other podiatrists. It was so hard to keep from screaming at each one, "You idiot. Dr. Gilchrist did the same thing and it didn't hurt". We've all three been blessed with awesome fathers and for this we can be forever grateful.
Janice Cash Benton
Monday, May 4, 2020
Amy and Beth, I am so sorry about your daddy. He was always so sweet to me when we were kids and running around. I know how hard it is to have your father leave you but know that he is happy and whole with your Mom in heaven. God Bless you both and your family. Love you. Janice
Mary J. Snapp Matthews
Monday, May 4, 2020
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. I thought the world of your parents & they were definitely two of the kindest people that I've ever known. I am praying for strength & comfort for you both & also all of your family!
Steven Lewis
Monday, May 4, 2020
I always enjoyed talking to Don, He was a great man who cared for so many people. From the restaurant, Kiwanis and Pioneer football he was always welcoming you with a hand shake and smile. He will be missed..
Buddy and Missy Carlile
Monday, May 4, 2020
We are so very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. We are keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers!
Buddy and Missy Carlile
Sarah shreve mark shreve
Monday, May 4, 2020
In iur thoughts
Dick Bernard
Monday, May 4, 2020
A wonderful man. A great Kiwanian that was always there to support me when I was President. Always carried himself with grace and dignity. Together again...
Dick
Larry Allgood
Monday, May 4, 2020
I was both shocked and saddened to learn of Don's passing. Don and Earlene were both wonderful people. It's my prayer that Amy, Beth and the extended family find peace during this time of sorrow.
Ron & Martha Lewallen
Monday, May 4, 2020
One of my favorites. He was loved and will be missed by many.
Laraine Wilson Platt
Monday, May 4, 2020
My thoughts and prayers go to the entire family at the loss of this wonderful, kind man. A true Gentleman. Always loved to visit with him even after he retired. He loved his family and was so proud of all of you. He will be with his Sweetheart now.