Elizabeth Julia Gilson

Elizabeth "Betty" Gilson, 94 of E. Dummerston, VT passed away on July 21, 2017 at the home of her daughter with whom she resided. She was born in Rockingham, VT on December 18, 1922; the daughter of the late Albet O. and Mabel (Nichols) Barnes.

Betty was a lifelong area resident and attended the local school systems. She grew up on the family farm in Westminister West. Betty was very proud of her roots connected to the soil and the fact that the road leading up to the farm was named after her family. She was employed at American Optical and later as hotel housekeeper. She volunteered with her daughter at the East Dummerston Daycare. She was a wonderful cook who loved to bake, make breads which she always shared and always made sure every family member had a homemade birthday cake. She enjoyed traveling, attending yard sales, shopping, and hunting. She was a 50 year member of the United Methodist Church and a Golden Eagle member of the Brattleboro Eagle Auxiliary 2445, where she held office in local states and regional areas, including madam president.

Betty was an extraordinary woman that seized the joy in ordinary days. She dealt with any adversity with grace and acceptance, including her diagnosis of blindness and Alzheimer in her later years. She had many friends that loved and supported her including, Maury McNaughton, Kenny Paul Chamberlin, Deb Fitzpatrick who keep her beautiful and especially Lyda Joseph, who was one of her honorary grandchild from childhood to the present.
She is predeceased by two spouses, Fred Hoard and William Gilson; a son, Stuart Douglas; two brothers, Albert and Ralph Barnes; and two sisters, Dorothy and Margaret Barnes.

She is survived by two daughters, Carol L. Lynch of E. Dummerston, and Joan Stillwell (John) of Houston, MO; a son, Frank Hoard (Michele) of Brattleboro; a brother, Donald Barnes (Elaine) of Saxton River; twelve grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, one great-great grandson, Carter Melia; a sister-in-law, Mabel Barnes of Brattleboro, special friend and step daughter-in-law, Evelyn Hoard; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family wishes to thank, VNH Hospice, Senior Solutions, and The Gathering Place for making Betty's life comfortable and joyful.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 29, 2017 at 1:00 pm at the Brattleboro Eagles Club 2445, 54 Chickering Dr. Brattleboro, VT 05301. Burial will be private. The KER-WESTERLUND FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Eagles Club at the address above.