Obituary of Florence Gilbey

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Florence Julia (Gill) Gilbey on Friday, July 21st, 2017 at Hospice Fredericton surrounded by her loving family. Born in Devon, New Brunswick on July 2, 1934 to her late parents Herbert & Mabel Gill. Florence is survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Clifton E “Sam” Gilbey; her brother Lloyd Gill of Fredericton; her three children, Dale Gilbey (Maxine), Lynn Gallagher (Rick), & Danny Gilbey (Nicki) all of Fredericton. She adored her grandchildren, Darci MacPherson (Dennis), Jonathan Gilbey (Gayle), Ashlyn Gallagher (Jesse Hachey), Jeremy Charters; James McLean & Christian Gilbey with their mother, Kelly Gilbey. Also very special to Florence were her great grandchildren, Ryan, Jacob & Benjamin MacPherson. God had a plan this day to take one soul from our family with Florence and bless us with another soul in great granddaughter, Ember Jane Gilbey born this day to Jonathan & Gayle Gilbey. Florence was predeceased by her parents along with brothers, Harry Gill and Ralph Gill. Left to cherish her memory are cousins, many nieces & nephews and extended families. Married at the age of 20, Florence worked at her parents family lumber business of H.S. Gill & Sons Ltd., later changed to and still running today Devon Lumber Co. under the management of her dear nephew Harry Gill. Once her children came along she devoted all her time to raising them. Florence & Sam built their family home on the Northside where she was so proud of the history it holds and so was thrilled and compelled to share her life stories through the Northside Heritage Group she was a member of for many years. Florence & Sam could often be seen at the local Country Jamborees & Playhouse events in Fredericton as they loved old-time country music and supporting local up & coming artists. Summers were spent for 50+ years at Scotchtown, Grand Lake at their summer home where you’d find them out boating, seadooing, and entertaining family & wonderful friends. Fall & Winter was time to head four wheeling and snowmobiling to their little log cabin tucked away back in the woods behind “Harvey’s Big Potato” in Maugerville. Florence loved nature and this place offered the purest kind. The family wish to express their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses & staff in the Oncology Unit of the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital for their care and compassion during mom’s frequent visits there. Special Thank You to her Palliative Care Physician, Dr Gowan for her kindness and special home visits which mom was so appreciative. Mom held a strong faith and uplifting spirit throughout her difficult journey with the support of her family and many friends. Special Thank You to all the Integrity Staff, for their countless hours spent caring for mom at home. At Florence’s request she would like you to join her family for a Celebration of her Life on Sunday, July 30th 2017 at the York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive, Fredericton from 6-8 pm. A Private Graveside Service will be held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church Cemetery under the direction of Rev. Canon Kevin Stockall. For those who wish, donations made to Canadian Cancer Society or the St. Mary’s Anglican Church Cemetery would be appreciated. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com. For those who knew Florence, she had the wonderful gift of gab and at the end of her conversations would often say “And that’s what’s going on!” Hope we didn’t forget anything mom and look forward to the day we see you again and catch up on what’s been going on up in Heaven. Forever in our hearts.