Gilda M. Dennis

AUBURN — Gilda M. Dennis, 98, of Auburn passed away Friday, June 15, 2018, with her loving family at her side. Born in Lewiston on Feb. 15, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Lea (Goulet) Michaud. She attended Lewiston High School before working for F. W. Woolworth, where she advanced to assistant manager before her marriage to William O.Dennis in 1943. After her children were born, she stayed home to raise her family until they were grown, at which time she returned to work. She was employed by the Auburn Federal Credit Union for 23 years as assistant treasurer. In 1982, she was the recipient of the Maine Credit Union League Award for the “Outstanding Employee for the Credit Union.” More recently, she was employed by T.D. Bank, before retiring in 2002. She also enjoyed working in the office of Porteous Mitchell Department Store.

A devoted and active member of Sacred Heart Church in Auburn, Gilda served on numerous parish committees, boards and clubs. She was a Eucharistic Minister, an officer of the Sacred Heart Golden Age Club, a founder and first president of the Ladies of Charity and a member and treasurer for the Ladies of St. Anne Sodality. Gilda was the treasurer of the Lewiston District Council of Maine Catholic Women, and secretary of the Legion of Mary. She was a fervent member of the Sacred Heart Prayer Group. She also was a member of the “Bosse” and “Dubois” family groups of St. Philips Church, and served as a member of the Philipians of St. Philips.

Gilda’s caring nature led her to volunteer in several area organizations, such as The Patronesses of St. Mary’s Hospital, the R.S.V.P. Program and the American Red Cross Blood Services for more than 30 years. In 2015, she was recognized as one of Southern Maine Red Cross Real Heroes, having “demonstrated acts of kindness and unselfish character in service to others.” At the CMMC Dempsey Center, she enjoyed the “Knitting Circle.”

Oil painting, ceramics, sewing, knitting and stamp collecting were her favorite hobbies. Although busy always giving of herself, she treasured more than anything else the time spent with her loving family.

Gilda is survived by a daughter, Constance Bevivino, and husband, Dr. Jack Bevivino, of Rhode Island; two sons: Ronald Dennis and Donald Dennis and wife, Sherri, of Massachusetts; six grandchildren: Caren McGrath and husband, Ryan; Jessica Derman and husband, Jeremy; Katelyn; Cameron; Jenna; and Halle Dennis; great-grandson, Lincoln McGrath; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Gilda was predeceased by her husband of almost 64 years, William Dennis; two sisters: Laurianne Cormier and Jeannette Michaud; three brothers: Philip, Frank and Maurice Michaud.

You are invited to offer your condolences and share fond memories with the family by visiting Gilda’s guestbook at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.