Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
BORN
1938
DIED
2023
Robert Gillanders Obituary
Robert James Gillanders "Gil"
Robert James Gillanders "Gil" passed away peacefully on November 7, 2023 with his wife Emilie, at his side. The son of Irish immigrants Catherine Toner Gillanders of Donegal and William James Gillanders of Monaghan, he was born in New York City on June 3, 1938.
After high school at St Ann's Academy in New York City, he attended The College of the Holy Cross graduating in 1960. In 1964 he graduated from Georgetown University Medical School followed by an internship at St Vincent's Hospital in New York City and a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Georgetown. He practiced medicine in Vienna, Virginia from 1968-2007. When asked what kind of medicine he practiced he always answered "the best." He loved what he did and considered it an honor to assist in bringing new life into the world.
A true renaissance man, he was as comfortable in an art museum as in the operating room. He thought nothing of driving hours to an art show that piqued his interest. His sense of adventure and thirst to keep learning was inspirational. One of his proudest accomplishments was completing the 500 mile hike on the "Camino de Santiago" in Spain, with various members of his family.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years Emilie; son Dr. William Gillanders (Jeanne), son Dr Robert Gillanders (Julie); daughter Dr. Elizabeth Gillanders; son John Gillanders (Jody) and his sister Diane Donahue. He was predeceased by his daughter Tia Gillanders Garner and his two sisters Gerry Roemer and Cappy Ogrudek. He was a loving grandfather to Emma, Ian, and Teddy Gillanders, William and Emilie Garner, and Jacklyn and Mitch Gillanders.
The family would like to thank the staff of Capital Caring Hospice who cared for Gil, especially his nurse Young, health aide Kwame, and loyal volunteers Marcia and Nikki. In addition, thanks to the wonderful staff at the Adler Center where Gil spent the last few days of his life.
The funeral mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Georgetown on Friday, November 17 at 1 p.m., with visitation beginning at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Capital Caring (www.capitalcaring.org) or a charity of your choice.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Gillanders
6 Entries
Patty Bates
January 18, 2025
I was so sorry to learn yesterday that Dr. Gillanders had died. I was his patient for many years. He was the best!! He took care of me beginning as a young woman; he delivered our two children. He served as medical - care support during one of the most difficult reproductive challenges of my life. He also took care of my mother when she was in an emergency situation. Always at the ready to help! I moved from the area but never forget his dedicated, skillful, empathetic care. I send deep sympathies to his family for this huge loss of your patriarch. So grateful to have had his devoted, critically important medical care. Again, he was the best! Bravo to this Renaissance man- a gift to have shared his presence and care! Love, Patty Bates
Brenda Lee Scott
October 28, 2024
In loving memory of a wonderful person. I´m Just hearing of his passing, so sorry the loss.
Dr. Gillander´s was an amazing individual. Not only did he deliver my three children ~ 1985, 1987 and 1991, he was also a confident. He helped me through troubled times and gave the most helpful words of advice and wisdom. Much admiration and
the best of memory.
May he rest in heavenly peace.
Kim stacks
July 3, 2024
I just found out about Dr Gillanders passing. He was my Doctor for many years and he was definitely one of the best. He was always so personable and caring. We shared a common bond as we both had the same back surgery so he would ask me questions concerning that. He was a true Angel who not just loved his family but his patients as well!! I see from the obituary some of his children are also doctors. I imagaine they are as wonderful as their father!! Such an amazing man!!
Kathleen Wiersberg
November 14, 2023
sorry for your loss, he was a good person to work with. I know you will all miss hm.
Kathleen Wiersberg
Andrew Simons
November 11, 2023
Gil was one of 1960´s best! An accomplished race walker, he would regularly finish ahead of me at reunion 5Ks (and I was running - sort of!). I cherished his friendship, and he will be missed.
Andy Simons `60
Richard T Wotruba
November 11, 2023
Classmate Class 1960 Holy Cross,always had a smile no matter what was present challenge.An inspiration to us all.Very supportive we worked together in Kimball for four years wish his family prayers,and support as they grieve.His memories will be forever
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Gillanders's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for Robert Gillanders
Nov
17
Visitation
11:30 a.m.
Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Georgetown, VA
Nov
17
Funeral Mass
1:00 p.m.
Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Georgetown, VA
How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Gillanders's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more