H. Michael Gilbert

H. Michael Gilbert, age 73, of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away on Saturday, August 09, 2025, in Scottsdale. He was a native of Erwin and a son of the late Herbert Donald Gilbert and Ruth Riddle Gilbert. Michael grew up in Erwin before moving to Johnson City in 1985 where he remained until he moved to Scottsdale in 2005.

Michael served his country honorably in the United States Air Force. He graduated from ETSU where he earned his BS Degree. Michael was a certified CFP. After Michael graduated from ETSU he started his own business, Gilbert Advanced Asset Management (GAAM). He was the CEO, President, and Co-Owner for many years before his retirement.

Michael was involved in the field of finance for over thirty years, and he was a nationally recognized retirement expert and speaker. He was named as one of “America’s Top 100 Independent Advisors” by a prestigious financial publication in August 2007. In July 2007, Michael was recognized by President George H. W. Bush as one of the Top Investment Advisors in the country. In 2008, Michael was named one of the “Top 50 Independent Financial Advisors in America” by Fortune Magazine. Barron’s, the world’s leading business publication named Michael the “Number 1 Financial Advisor in the State of Tennessee” for 2009, 2010 and 2011.

Michael's hobbies include the study of Quantum Physics, competitive chess, the study of philosophy, collecting guns and traveling.

His survivors include his two daughters: Natalie Gilbert of Scottsdale, Kim Washington and husband, Joseph of Jonesborough; one grandson, Elijah Washington; step granddaughter, A'mya Washington; one sister, Teresa Droke and husband. Rik of Johnson City; former wife and mother of his children who was also a special friend, Sally Betterton of Erwin; special friend, Karen O’Donnell of Scottsdale.

The Gilbert family will receive friends on Monday, August 25, 2025, from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the Robert Ledford Funeral Home. Michael’s funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Gilbert family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com. 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Gilbert family. (423) 743-1380

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