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Lana Sue Gilbert Estes

Lana Sue Gilbert Estes, 73, of Lynchburg, died in her sleep on Monday, April 8, 2019. She was the loving wife of William David "Dave" Estes.

Lana was born January 25, 1946 in New Castle, IN, the youngest of 5 children of the late Dr. Robert Lee Gilbert and Mae Rife Gilbert. She was predeceased by her next older brother Steve Gilbert

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children: Jennifer Guthrie and husband David of Lynchburg, Jocelyn Estes of Lynchburg, Jeffrey Estes and wife Eileen of Frederick, MD, and Joanna Estes of Lynchburg, five grandchildren, Jana and Katie Guthrie, Conley, Jameson, and Liam Estes and her sister Roberta Gilbert, brother David Gilbert and wife Karen, brother Jan Gilbert and wife Evelyn.

Lana was a devoted home maker, mother, choir member and artist. She was known by her friends as a loving and faithful friend who while very quiet at first was joyful, helpful and fun to be around. Lana had a great gift for hospitality and enjoyed cooking for guests, hosting potlucks and other events, in their home, for church groups with which she and Dave were active. She was always welcoming to those who came to their home and made each one feel special. Her greatest joy came from those who commented that they felt at home in her house. After moving with her family to the Washington, DC area, she developed a talent for painting and did bulletin boards for the teachers at the kids' school, backdrops for programs at the school and church and murals in her own home.

As she suffered the final years of her life from Alzheimer's, it was not possible for her to continue those activities. But, she remained a kind, gentle and gracious lady even to the day of her death.

After moving to Lynchburg, she attended Heritage Baptist Church and as long as possible, she attended Church and the New Life Disciple Class developing several friends there.