LACONIA - Laconia native of a prominent family, Elizabeth (O’Connor) Gilbert died peacefully with family by her side on June 5, 2015.
A Laconia High School graduate, she wed Delphis Gilbert in 1948, and was a partner in the founding and expansion of the family owned Gilbert Block Company for many of its early years. She was earlier employed at Scott and Williams as a secretary. Her primary and favorite titles were Mother (Mommie), Grandmother (Garnie), Great Grandmother (Great Garnie) and until November 2012, Wife. She was blessed and is survived by four children, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
“Betty O” as she was known to many, contributed to the community as a member of the Andre Bessette Parish of St. Joseph Church, Catholic Daughters of America and supported any and all leagues, teams and projects of her extended family. She enjoyed entertaining family and friends, wintering in Florida, traveling, gardening and especially cooking. Her quick Irish wit and practical jokes brought laughter and joy to all.
A quintessential lady, Elizabeth was born on March 11, 1928 to John and Eva O’Connor.
She was predeceased by husband Del three years ago, and siblings Donald O’Connor, Ellen Bushnell, Irene Adams and Mary Haddock.
Survivors are three daughters, a son and their families including Stephanie Gilbert and her partner Susan Durance of Washington State, Karen Gilbert of Belmont, Joni Gilbert of Canterbury, and Brian Gilbert and his wife Jan of Laconia. The grandchildren are Chelsea Gilbert, Sara Gilbert, Julie Gilbert and Paige Knights-Swan. Great grandchildren include Brielle Vasilevsky and Jerome, Raya and Kira Knights-Swan.
A calling hour will be held from 11AM to 12 Noon on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at St. Andre Bessette Parish - St. Joseph Church, 30 Church Street, Laconia. A Mass of Christian burial will immediately follow at 12 Noon, also at the church. Burial will follow in the family plot at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Garfield Street, Laconia.
The family suggests memorial donations in her name be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter, Five Bedford Farms Drive, Suite 201, Bedford, N.H. 03110.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N.H. is assisting the family with the arrangements.