Joe Dean Gilbreath

Joe Dean Gilbreath, 81, a decorated U.S. Army veteran, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, in Big Spring, Texas. Born in 1944, Joe entered active duty in 1963, serving in the Vietnam War and later at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point until his retirement in 1982. He received numerous honors, including the Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry.

On October 2, 1965, Joe married Martha “Janie” Jane Gilbreath. They shared 55 years of marriage before her passing in 2021. He was also preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Nena Gilbreath, in 2024.

He is survived by his sons, Mackey (Melissa) and Andy Gilbreath; and grandchildren: Samantha, Rebecca (Mike, with daughters Remi and Rubi), Joyann (Trever), Hayden (Paige, with son Cooper), and Alexis (Austin, with daughter Coralee).

Joe will be remembered for his strength, humility, and unwavering love for his family.

A service with full military honors will be held on July 15th at 9:00 AM Central Time at Lower Greens Creek Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the Gilbreath Family wishes donations to be made in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project at

https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.