Merle Gilbert

Merle Gilbert, 96, passed away of natural causes February 21 at Meadowbrook Healthcare. Born in Plattsburgh and a long-time resident of Plattsburgh and Point au Roche, she was a graduate of Bryant and Stratton Business College, Buffalo, New York. She married her high school sweetheart, the late John E. Beauvais, a navy pilot, during WWII. After raising five children, she worked at SUNY Plattsburgh for thirteen years before retiring. A Women’s Rights and Peace Advocate, she was active in the Clinton County Mental Health Association, Planned Parenthood, Women Incorporated, the American Heart Association and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. She played piano with her husband in their Swing band in the ‘40s, and remained a jazz enthusiast. Known for her dry wit, she was an ardent crossword and scrabble aficionado, gardener and bird lover who cherished the peace and solitude of country life. Survivors include John Beauvais, Plattsburgh, NY; Judy Beauvais, Ballston Spa, NY; Pete Beauvais (Linda), Eau Claire, WI; Joe Beauvais (Paula), Las Cruces, NM; Steve Beauvais (Deborah), Hilton, NY; a niece, Sarah Salatino (Bryan), Essex, VT, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Honoring her wishes, there will be no calling hours or services. A celebration of her life will be held in the future. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Plattsburgh. Online condolences may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com.