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Ethel Beckleheimer Gilmer

Ethel Gilmer Obituary

Ethel Beckleheimer Gilmer, 96, of Roanoke, Va., died and met her Savior, Jesus, on Friday, September 26, 2008. She was the last remaining daughter of the late Moses Lee and Corilda Spencer Beckleheimer. She was the youngest of six sisters who preceded her in death, Maggie B. Walters, Virginia B. Richardson, Beatrice B. Keith, Edna B. Sumner and Ruby B. Walters. Also preceding her in death was her husband of 60 years, James Carey Gilmer; a daughter, Colleen Gilmer; and two grandsons, Douglas Thompson and Gregory Gilmer. Surviving are two sons, William E. Gilmer, of Smyrna, S.C., and Donald Lee Gilmer and wife, Cary, of Roanoke; a daughter, Doris G. Thompson and husband, Tim, of Roanoke; six grandchildren, Cindy Thompson, Sandra Thompson, David Thompson, all of Roanoke, Tommy Thompson, of Boones Mill, Carylee G. Meyers, of Columbus, Ohio, and Melanie G. Harper, of Jacksonville, Fla.; 10 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Ethel was a faithful member of Ghent Grace Brethren Church for over 75 years and was a wonderful Christian example to her family and friends. Despite dementia, she continued to read her Bible to the end. The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 28, 2008, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Lotz Funeral Home, Roanoke. A graveside service will be held 2 p.m. on Monday, September 29, 2008, at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens with Pastors Danny Wright and Zach Doppelt officiating. The family wishes to thank those who have so kindly cared for Ethel in her declining years, especially Jeanne Duncan and her staff. Memorial gifts may be given to Ghent Grace Brethren Church. Online condolences may be made at www.lotzfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Roanoke Times from Sep. 27 to Sep. 29, 2008.

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3 Entries

Nathan Leigh

September 29, 2008

As her Pastor for several years I just want to say that this sister was always an encourager to me. Every Sunday she would have a smile for me and the love of the Lord shown through her eyes. I mourn with her family because I know how much they love her. I am glad for her because she is in the presence of her Lord who she loved so much. Thanks Jesus for allowing me to know this sister on this side of glory!

Mary Clingenpeel Haga

September 28, 2008

One of my good childhood memories was how pleasant your mother was all the time. I know you will miss her but she is in a better place. I am fortunate to still have my mother living with me here in Puerto Rico. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mary Clingenpeel Haga

Tillie Green Cassell

September 28, 2008

My thought and prayers are with all the family. I have many childhood memories especially the bible classes she had in her home as I was growing up. May God be with you in your sorrow.

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