BOB GILBERT

Robert “Bob” Gilbert, 67, of Natural Bridge passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025. 

Bob was born on April 21, 1957, to the late John Leroy and Mary Frances Sandridge Gilbert.

Growing up in NaturalBridge, Bob was a friend to many and rarely met a stranger. After graduation from NaturalBridge High School and James Madison University, he moved to Richmond where he met his loving wife, Kathy. 

After moving back to Rockbridge County to work at Virginia Military Institute, Bob devoted much of his time  giving back to his church and his community. Bob served in multiple roles at High Bridge Presbyterian Church including treasurer, member of both the diaconate and session, cemetery trustee, Sunday school teacher and lay-pastor.  As a school board member for many years, a leader in the Natural Bridge Ruritan Club, and a former-president of the Friends of Natural Bridge State Park, among many other community-based organizations, Bob wanted the best for the community he so loved.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Kathy; their four children, Daniel (Hannah) of Brighton, Colo., Hattie (Brad) of Natural Bridge, Mary of Denver, Colo., and Will of Richmond, as well as his four grandchildren, Cora, Everly, Kinsley and Henry. He is also survived by his sister, Ann (Bobby), and many nieces and nephews whom he loved very much. 

A memorial service will be conducted 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at High Bridge Presbyterian Church by Pastor Steve Willis.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the High Bridge Presbyterian Scholarship Fund, the Friends of the Natural Bridge State Park, or the Natural Bridge Ruritan Club Scholarship Fund.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory.