Obituaries

Barbara Jean Gilbert

Barbara Jean Gilbert: 1939 - 2026

Barbara Jean Gilbert September 16, 1939 – April 16, 2026

Barbara Jean Gilbert, 86, of Franklin, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026.

Born on September 16, 1939, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Barbara was the daughter of the late Thomas P. Gilbert and Flora M. (Ouimet) Gilbert. She was the youngest of seven siblings, all of whom preceded her in death: Thomas, Robert, Shirley, Norma, Patricia, and Walter.

Barbara dedicated over 40 years of her life to a compassionate and impactful career as a registered nurse. She worked in many areas of nursing but found her true calling in oncology, where she provided comfort and care to countless patients and families. Her career took her through New England and Florida before she settled in Franklin, North Carolina, where she completed her nursing career at Angel Medical Center. Even after retiring, Barbara continued to give back by volunteering at the hospital for several years.

She was a devoted member of St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church. In later years, when she could no longer attend in person, she remained faithful by watching Sunday Mass from home.

Barbara found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time in the kitchen, especially during the holidays, when she brought people together through her cooking. She was an avid reader, cherished the beauty of the mountains, and deeply valued time spent with friends and family.

She is survived by her loving partner, Nancy Ann Crimmins, and many nieces and nephews, including Echo Morris, her husband Andrew, and son Thomas of South Carolina, Susan Volavka, her husband Michael, and daughter Mary of Georgia, Thomas Gilbert of Massachusetts, and Ann Rosellini of Washington State, as well as many other extended family members and dear friends.

In accordance with her wishes, no formal services will be held. Her arrangements have been entrusted to Bryant-Grant Funeral Home in Franklin.

In lieu of flowers, Barbara’s family kindly asks that you take a moment to enjoy the beauty of nature and God’s creation in her memory