Mary Frances Sandridge Gilbert, 80, of Natural Bridge, died on November 5, 2009 at Kendal in Lexington.

Born on June 16, 1929 in Lexington, she was the daughter of the late Charles William Sandridge and Nellie Martin Arehart Sandridge.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Leroy Gilbert.

Mary Frances was a long-time member of High Bridge Presbyterian Church and retired from the postal service.

Surviving are a daughter, Ann Gilbert Higgins and husband, Bob of Stuarts Draft; and a son, Bob Gilbert and wife, Kathy of Natural Bridge; six grandchildren, Sara Fitzgerald and her husband, Eric; Ben Higgins and his wife, Tara; Daniel Gilbert, Hattie Gilbert, Mary Gilbert, and Will Gilbert; and one great granddaughter, Molly Fitzgerald.

She is also survived by one brother, Charles (Colonel) Sandridge of Fairfield.

A graveside service will be held at High Bridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Sunday, November 8, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Jason M. Grimes officiating. The family will gather with friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at the Harrison Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the High Bridge Presbyterian Church Scholarship Fund, c/o Tom Thompson, 304 Marl Lane, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579 or the Rockbridge Area Hospice, 315 Myers Street, Lexington, VA 24450.

Arrangements are being handled by the Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory, Lexington, Virginia.