Esther Bremner Gilman

Esther Bremner Gilman, 77, of Ashland, went to be with her Lord and Savior on July 1, 2024 after a short but courageous battle with cancer. She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Thomas Spiller Gilman, Sr.; and their four children, Christy Gilman-Booker (Mark), Anna Williams (Mike), Tom Gilman, Jr. (Katie) and Tony Gilman (Stacy), all of Ashland, Virginia. She was the proud “Nan-E” to eight grandchildren, Rees Williams, Gavin Booker, Wil Gilman (Brooke), Claire Williams, Paula Gilman, Leah Johnson (Luke), Berkeley Gilman, and Reagan Gilman. She is also survived by countless family members. Esther was born on April 28, 1947 to the late Walter Alexander Bremner and Evelyn Chichester Bremner in Richmond, Virginia. After graduating from Patrick Henry High School, she attended Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and returned in her forties to earn her Bachelors of Business Administration, graduating with honors. Esther was a stay-at-home mom and worked part time for Gilman Lumber Company and later for Eagle Point Farm. Her true passion was serving the Lord. A member of St. Peter’s United Methodist Church for 47 years, she taught Sunday school and vacation Bible school, lead Bible studies, sang in the choir, co-chaired the Missions Committee, served as Treasurer for 35 years, and served in numerous other capacities. It was her personal mission to make everyone feel welcomed and loved by her church family. Esther cherished connecting with her family and friends. She organized family reunions and other gatherings and always kept everyone informed of family news and prayer requests. For over 50 years she played bridge with her dear friends, the Bridge Broads. She and Tom loved to travel far and wide. They enjoyed many adventures, often planning itineraries that would include visits with family and friends. Esther touched the lives of so many people. She will be missed dearly, but her remarkable legacy will live in our hearts forever. A Celebration of Life service will be held on July 13, 2024 at 2:00pm at St. Peter's United Methodist Church in Montpelier (please carpool). The service will also be livestreamed (St. Peter’s UMC Facebook) and recorded. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Peter's United Methodist Church, 15599 Mountain Road, Montpelier, VA 23192 or https://onrealm.org/StPetersUMC/-/form/give/now (select “Memorial Fund”).