Obituaries

Lena B. Gilbert Barker, 85, of Bassett, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at K.B. Reynolds Hospice Home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She was born on December 28, 1940, in Bristol, Tennessee, to the late Joseph Barron Barker and Katherine Hudnall Barker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Tim Gilbert; three brothers, Lloyd Barker, Frankie Barker, and Billy Joe Barker (Bonnie); her mother-in-law, Charity “BeeBee” Gilbert; and father-in-law, John W. Gilbert.

Lena was a devoted member of Fort Trial Christian Church and was known for her gentle spirit, creative hands, and deep love for her family. She found great joy in crocheting, completing word and picture puzzles, decorating cakes, and surrounding herself with flowers—simple pleasures that beautifully reflected her warm and caring nature. Above all, she cherished the time she spent with her great-grandsons.

Lena is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Billy J. Gilbert; one daughter, Christie Parks (Michael); two grandsons, Kurt Holliday (Sarah) and Tanner Gilbert; and two great-grandsons, Jack Holliday and Liam Holliday. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Patsy Barker and Connie Barker; brother-in-law, John Mark Gilbert (Cheri); nieces and nephews, Sherri Broadwell (Dohn), Andrew Barker (Stephanie), Wendy Bost (George), Leigh Isley (Steve), Aimee Barker, and Pam Crum (Mark); along with great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2025, at Fort Trial Christian Church at 1:00pm, with Pastor Danny Hart. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Henry Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to K.B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, or Fort Trial Christian Church, 6356 Virginia Avenue, Bassett, VA 24055.

Bassett Funeral Service is honored to serve the Barker family.