Joan F. Gilmer

STAUNTON – Shelva Joan Fitzgerald Gilmer, 87, passed away Monday (March 9, 2026) in Brookdale Staunton.

Born August 16, 1938 in Staunton, she was the daughter of the late Carl Owen Fitzgerald and Nellie Irene (Shull) Fitzgerald. She was a graduate of Churchville High School (class of 1956), and Dunsmore Business School.

Joan was employed by Western State Hospital, initially as an assistant payroll clerk. She progressed through several departments during her tenure, ending her career as an activities and music coordinator. She retired in 1991 after 28 years of service. Joan’s sincere interest in the well-being of senior citizens not only shaped her career, but was also evident in the way she cared for family members and in the way she served her church. She was a member of Staunton Seventh-day Adventist Church for many years where she served in the music ministry, and later as Director of Community Services.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Frederick Allen Gilmer; and a foster sister, Sharon Diane Smith.

Joan is survived by two sons, Steven FitzGerald (wife Sharon) of Bryson City, N.C., and Glenn Gilmer of Churchville; grandchildren Delilah Rae Gilmer Kelley (husband Chris), Clifton Allen Gilmer (wife Ariana), Jacob Allen Gilmer, Owen Michael FitzGerald, and Mattie Elizabeth FitzGerald; and great-grandchildren Liam and Laramie Gilmer and Lane Kelley.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 13 in Staunton Seventh-day Adventist Church, officiated by Pastor Daniel Darrikhuma. Burial will follow in Oak Lawn Memory Gardens. Pallbearers will be Clifton Gilmer, Chris Kelley, Jacob Gilmer, Danny Kline, Colt Peyton, Larry Sheffer, David Hevener, Daryl Hevener and, Gary Michael.

Memorials may be directed to the Community Services of Staunton Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1000 N. Coalter St., Staunton, VA 24401.

Bear Funeral Home is serving the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at bearfuneralhome.com.