Anne M. Gravel

LEEDS — Anne M. Gravel, 100, of Leeds, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 19, at home with her family by her side.

She was born in Van Buren on Feb. 23, 1918, a daughter of the late Willie and Marie (Couturier) Bell. The family moved to the Lewiston-Auburn area when she was only 5 years old and she lived here for the rest of her life. In October of 1936, she married the love of her life, Hector Gravel. Together they worked and raised their young family of nine children in Lewiston.

She was a member of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish for many years before it consolidated with all the parishes of Lewiston to become Prince of Peace Parish. Quilting, knitting, reading, watching mystery shows and camping are all things which brought her much joy in her life. Most of all though, what brought her true happiness was the precious time she spent with her very large family. She was a very generous and modest lady who made and donated over 380 quilts for The Barbara Bush Camp Sunshine, and knitted mittens and hats that went to a large number of schools as far away as Virginia, never once wanting or seeking recognition for her generosity.

Anne is survived by five of her children, Hector Gravel Jr. and wife, Monique, of Lewiston, Prudence Beaudoin and husband, Paul, of Sabattus, James Gravel and wife, Shelley, of Florida, Diane Beaulieu and husband, Denis, of Lewiston, Anne Johnson and husband, Greg, of Leeds; 28 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; 36 great-great-grandchildren; two great-great-great grandchildren with two more expected; and a sister, Laurette Sharby, of Massachusetts.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Hector Gravel Sr., in 1969; three daughters, Cecile, Dolores and Helen; one son, Richard; and three brothers, Bobby, Phillipe and Andre, who died in the Korean War.

The family would like to thank the staff at Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice and Dr. Shannon Deschaines for the loving care they gave their mother during her last years.

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