The Asheville, North Carolina community is mourning the loss of Will Gilbert, a respected entrepreneur, business owner, and community advocate whose influence extended far beyond the companies he helped build. Known for his leadership, vision, and commitment to serving others, Gilbert leaves behind a legacy of innovation, determination, and compassion that touched countless lives throughout Western North Carolina.

News of his passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from family members, friends, colleagues, clients, and community leaders who remember him not only as a successful businessman but also as a generous individual dedicated to helping others achieve their goals and overcome challenges.

A Visionary Entrepreneur

Will Gilbert earned widespread respect within Asheville’s business community through years of hard work, perseverance, and entrepreneurial ambition. As co-owner of Exotic Aces, he played a significant role in guiding the company’s growth and establishing its reputation for excellence.

Those who worked alongside him often described him as a forward-thinking leader who embraced challenges and sought opportunities where others saw obstacles. His ability to build strong relationships, foster collaboration, and pursue innovative solutions became hallmarks of his leadership style.

Gilbert understood that successful businesses are built not only on strategy and hard work but also on trust, integrity, and a commitment to serving customers and employees alike.

His entrepreneurial spirit inspired many aspiring business owners throughout the region.

Leadership at Asheville Waterproofing Company

In addition to his involvement with Exotic Aces, Gilbert was the owner of Asheville Waterproofing Company, a business recognized throughout Western North Carolina for its professionalism and commitment to quality service.

Under his leadership, the company earned the trust of homeowners and commercial property owners by providing dependable solutions and maintaining a reputation for honesty and reliability. Customers frequently praised the company’s attention to detail, responsiveness, and dedication to delivering lasting results.

Gilbert’s hands-on approach to business allowed him to build meaningful relationships with clients while ensuring high standards of workmanship remained a priority.

His commitment to excellence helped establish Asheville Waterproofing Company as a respected name within the industry.

A Passion for Helping Others Through Recovery Services

Perhaps one of the most impactful chapters of Gilbert’s life was his work as co-founder and owner of Oasis Recovery. Through this organization, he demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting individuals facing addiction and other personal challenges.

Friends, colleagues, and community members say this work reflected the heart of who he was—a person who believed in second chances, personal growth, and the power of compassionate support.

Through Oasis Recovery, Gilbert helped create opportunities for healing, recovery, and hope. His efforts contributed to programs designed to assist individuals as they worked toward rebuilding their lives and achieving lasting stability.

Many whose lives were positively influenced through these services have expressed gratitude for his dedication and vision.

His involvement in recovery services showcased not only his entrepreneurial abilities but also his desire to create meaningful and lasting change within his community.

A Foundation Built on Hard Work and Skill

Gilbert’s professional accomplishments were rooted in years of discipline, training, and determination. His participation in the IBEW/JATC Apprenticeship Program provided valuable technical knowledge and practical skills that became the foundation for his future success.

The experience reinforced values that would remain central throughout his life: craftsmanship, continuous learning, perseverance, and professionalism.

Those who knew him often pointed to his strong work ethic and willingness to learn as key factors behind his achievements. He understood that success required effort, dedication, and a commitment to continual improvement.

His journey serves as an example of how hard work and persistence can create opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

A Lasting Impact on the Asheville Community

While Gilbert’s professional accomplishments were significant, those closest to him say his greatest contribution was the positive impact he had on people around him.

He believed in supporting others, building relationships, and investing in his community. Whether mentoring colleagues, assisting clients, supporting recovery initiatives, or encouraging fellow entrepreneurs, he consistently demonstrated generosity and compassion.

Friends remember him as someone who valued relationships as much as accomplishments. His willingness to share knowledge, offer guidance, and help others succeed earned him admiration and respect throughout the Asheville area.

The businesses he helped build stand as part of his legacy, but the lives he touched may be an even greater testament to his character.

Remembering Will Gilbert

As family members, friends, colleagues, and community members reflect on his life, they remember a man whose determination, leadership, and generosity left a lasting impression.

Will Gilbert’s story is one of perseverance, vision, and service. Through entrepreneurship, community involvement, and recovery advocacy, he worked to create opportunities and improve the lives of others.

His legacy will continue through the businesses he helped establish, the individuals he mentored, the recovery programs he supported, and the countless relationships he built throughout his life.

Though his passing leaves a profound void, his influence remains woven into the fabric of the Asheville community he cared so deeply about.

He will be remembered with gratitude, admiration, and respect by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

May Will Gilbert rest in peace, and may his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones find comfort in the enduring legacy of a life devoted to hard work, service, and helping others.