Helen Gilbert

Helen Walton Gilbert, age 94, passed away on Wednesday, February 27, 2013 at Roman Eagle Memorial Home, after residing there for almost five years. She was born on February 12, 1919 to the late John T and Viola Lewis Walton. On December 25, 1940, Helen married R. B. (Josh) Gilbert, III who predeceased her on January 17, 1976. After graduating from Averett College, she began a teaching career of over forty years in the Pittsylvania County School System. She made a great impact on many children who have remembered her throughout the years. Helen was an active member in First Baptist Church, serving on many committees and leading in many ways. She was an active community leader. In addition to her parents and husband she was predeceased by a sister Ruth English and her husband Red English, and a sister-in-law Margaret G. Abbott and her husband Nat Abbott. She leaves behind a son Bruce Gilbert and his wife Norma; a daughter Lucy Ellen Barringer and her husband Bo; grandchildren Melanie Young and husband Barry, Lindsay Gilbert, Robbie Gilbert and wife Kirsten Metzger, and Justin Barringer and wife Kellie; great-grandchildren Brianna, Cody and Chance Richie, Karlie and Colton Barringer, and Ashby Metzger-Gilbert; and a brother Jack Walton and his wife Ann. Funeral services will be held on Saturday March 2, 2013 at 2:00 PM from Townes Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Joe Northen officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Burial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the funeral from 12:30 to 1:30 PM at Townes Funeral Home. The family suggests that memorial donations in her memory may be made to First Baptist Church, 871 Main Street, Danville, VA 24541. Townes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Gilbert family.