1931 – 2014

AUBURN — Jacqueline M. Gilbert Vaillancourt, 83, died Sunday, July 13, at the Androscoggin Hospice House, surrounded by her family and friends.

She was born in Lewiston on July 7, 1931, the daughter of Wilfred and Adelaide Caron Gilbert. She attended Holy Family School and upon eighth-grade graduation, entered the workforce.

On Oct. 7, 1950, she married Laurier “Red” Vaillancourt, and together raised their four children as the center of their lives. Red passed away on June 29, 1998.

Jackie worked for 34 years at the Hill Mill (third shift) and 12 years in the local shoe industry. She blossomed at doing crafts and presenting them at local craft fairs. She also enjoyed playing bingo with her daughters and friends. Playing cards and dominoes with her family was always a fun time for all involved.

She had a profound love for her God and His church, and made sure that her children and grandchildren knew Jesus Christ and worshiped Him.

Jackie did not struggle with stage four kidney disease for over three years, rather she lived and grew with it, filling her life with love, friendships and glad moments, not letting it define who she was or limit the light of her smile.

Survivors include three daughters, Irene (Larry) Roy of Lewiston, Arlene (Ron) Bilodeau of Sabattus and Diane (Clyde) Tarr of Lewiston; a son, the Rev. Bob Vaillancourt, of Portland; her grandchildren, Steve (Beth) Roy, Eric (Nicole) Roy, Greg (Amy) Vaillancourt, Tina (Henry) Degen and Sharlene (Kevin) Thornton; great-grandchildren, Shannon, Joshua, Trent, Luke and Elise; a brother, Henry (Lois) Gilbert; sisters-in-law, Carmen and Gisele Gilbert; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Through the love and mercy of Jesus Christ, Jackie now joins her parents, Adele and Wilfred; and her husband, Red; along with her twin brother, Clement, whom she was especially close to; her brother, Wilfred; and her infant children, James, Therese, Joseph and John.

The family wishes to thank Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice services, as well as the Hospice House in Auburn and its precious staff, especially for all the care they gave Jackie during her final illness.

You may share your condolences with the Vaillancourt family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.