James Russell Gilster

August 24, 1928 – May 4, 2025

James Russell Gilster, 96, Noblesville, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Riverview Health in Noblesville. He was born on August 24, 1928, to the late Russell and Edna (Gametter) Gilster in St. Louis, Mo.

Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri where he was a member of Lambda Chi Fraternity. Jim worked at the Pentagon in military intelligence during the Korean War. His career was as a sales manager for medical diagnostic equipment.

Jim was an avid sports fan from when he was young. He followed St. Louis, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis teams.

Jim was a member of Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church in Cincinnati and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. He had a servant’s heart; Jim loved to raise money for non-profit organizations. He served as executive director for Joseph House in Cincinnati, where he raised nearly $1 million (in support for veterans in Cincinnati, Ohio). He was an inaugural board of directors member for Same As U, where he actively served in honor of his granddaughter, Jessica (Same As U serves adults with disabilities), and was active in Servants at Work at St. Luke’s UMC.

He is survived by his wife, Bertie Jean Gilster; sons, John (Susan) Gilster, Bruce Gilster, and Timothy (Terry) Gilster; stepdaughters, Lisa (Art) Taylor and Jennifer (Kerry) Sell; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m., with services at 2 p.m., on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Randall & Roberts Funeral Home, 1150 Logan St., Noblesville. Chaplain Peggy Mindrebo will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to Same As U, 19201 Promise Road, Noblesville, IN 46060 (sameasu.org).

Condolences: randallroberts.com