Born in Lynchburg, December 5, 1936 she was a daughter of the late Eugene Matthew Gallaher and Mary Lee Hawkins Gallaher, Mary Ellen leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and warmth. Twice married, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Charles Henry Hatcher and her second husband Darrell Traylor Robertson.
Her professional journey was marked by years of devoted service, beginning at Lynchburg National Bank and continuing at Virginia Baptist Hospital before culminating in her retirement from Centra Health in June 2000 after 37 years of service. Throughout her career, Mary Ellen touched many lives, forming lasting friendships along the way.
A proud alumna of Boonsboro High School, Mary Ellen graduated as valedictorian in 1955. She pursued further education at Central Virginia Community College while contributing her talents to Virginia Baptist Hospital. Her leadership shone brightly as she became the first woman president of the Lynchburg Chapter of the National Accountants Association in the 1970s, a testament to her trailblazing spirit.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mary Ellen a member of various community organizations, including Pleasant View Baptist Church, the Rebekah Lodge No. 103, Women of the Moose, and the Fraternal Order of Police Associates, John Lynch Lodge #34. Her commitment to these groups underscored her dedication to both her community and her values.
In her retirement, Mary Ellen embraced her passion for storytelling by authoring "Nobody’s Home," a heartfelt reflection on her upbringing in the country store at Perrowville. Her literary work stands as a testament to her love for preserving memories and sharing experiences.
She is survived by her daughter, Kathy H. Straw (Gary) of Forest; two step-sons, Christopher D. Robertson of Raleigh, NC and Troy M. Robertson (Laurie) of Lynchburg; her grandchildren, Amanda S. Smith (Shane), Gary L. Straw, Tyler Robertson, Brittany Robertson, Jonathan Robertson, Julia Robertson and Adelyn Robertson. Also Sarah Beth Dinwiddie, a special friend whom she thought of as a granddaughter and her son Tucker; and her great granddaughter, Savannah R. Smith.
Ellen's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated nurses at the Bedford Hospice House. Their unwavering support, exceptional care, and boundless compassion provided comfort and solace during Ellen's final days. The family is immensely grateful for the professionalism, kindness, and support shown by these incredible individuals, whose care ensured Ellen's comfort and dignity, and eased the burden for her and her loved ones during this difficult time. Their commitment and empathy will always be remembered and appreciated.
A service celebrating her life will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 5, 2024 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel. Interment will follow in Fort Hill Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service.
The family requests those wishing to make memorial contributions to consider the Lynchburg Police Foundation, www.lynchburgpolicefoundation.org/donate.
