Nancy Heavner Gilbert

On Sunday, December 17, 2023, Nancy Heavner Gilbert, a cherished wife, devoted mother, loving grandmother, and proud great-grandmother, peacefully passed away at the age of 89.

Nancy, born on July 3, 1934, in the quaint town of Lincolnton, North Carolina, was the only daughter among three older brothers to Evan and Pearl Heavner. Her journey began at Lincolnton High School, where she later pursued higher education at Lenoir-Rhyne College in Hickory, North Carolina, earning a prestigious commercial degree. Notably, she held the esteemed position of class president during her time at Lenoir-Rhyne.

During her college years, fate intervened, and Nancy crossed paths with her future husband, Wallace (Wally) Gilbert. The first time they met, and captivated by her beauty, Wally famously declared to his football teammates that he would marry her one day.  True to his word, they were united in marriage on June 7, 1953.

In 1955, Nancy embraced a new chapter in Lynchburg when Wally accepted a coaching position at E. C. Glass High School. A devoted mother and steadfast coach's wife, Nancy raised three children before rejoining the workforce as an insurance clerk at Feinman, Clark ENT, and Plastic Surgery, where she dedicated 33 years of her life. Beyond her professional pursuits, Nancy found joy in tending to her yard, cultivating gardens, and showcasing her talent in sewing. She was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Debbie Meyer (Kevin), Rick Gilbert (Lil), and Teresa Bennett, along with her adored grandchildren, Jonathan Meyer (Amber), Ross Gilbert (Rebekah), Justin Meyer, Kensey Rabun (Ross), Evan Bennett, and great-grandchildren Spencer, Perkins, Adair, Mills, Foster, Addison, Trudie, Clayton, and Wallace.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her beloved husband Wally and brothers Clyde, R.A., and Julian Heavner.

A graveside service at Fort Hill Memorial Park will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

To honor Nancy's memory, the family kindly requests that those inclined to offer condolences consider contributing to the Wally Gilbert Fund (Scholarship) at the Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation. This fund was established to provide scholarships for Senior Athletes at Heritage High School. For more information, please contact Cheryl Hall at 434-845-6500.

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg is assisting the family.