Huguette C. Guilbault, of Vero Beach, passed away on July 3, 2014.
She is survived by her two children, Kim G. Davis, and Lance C. Thomson; five grandchildren, Drew Davis and Loren Davis, Peri Thomson, Anna Thomson and Emma Thomson; and three step children, Mark Guilbault, Paul Guilbault, and Michelle Guilbault.
She was preceded in death by her husband of over 30 years, Admiral Roland Guilbault.
Guilbault spent her youth in Tunisia and Morocco. She came to the United States as a 20 year-old bride. Fluent in French and Spanish, she taught herself English and remained conversant in all three languages throughout her life.
Vivid memories of American troops liberating Northern Africa in WW II were often shared with family along with strong patriotic values. Her years as a military wife exposed her to many US cities and foreign countries and she counted at least 30 moves in her lifetime.
She excelled at making a home quickly and efficiently with an eye for color and design. Guilbault was an excellent cook and her menu often reflected the diverse cultural cuisine she had seen in her many travels. Similarly, her home reflected the treasures she had gathered from all over the world and expressed a deep appreciation and affection for different cultural histories. She was a beloved grandmother who always had a beautifully furnished room full of books and artifacts waiting for her grandchildren.
Guilbault was a life long Democrat and a champion of civil rights. She was a strong voice for the welfare of the military families left behind when sailors were out to sea. She was always well dressed, loved the Broadway theater and enjoyed music and dancing. Reading was a favorite pastime and her interest ranged from Jane Austen, of whom she was a big fan, to American history, notably the founding fathers. Over the years she organized and led several book clubs. She took particular joy in introducing people to some of her favorite books.
With her husband, Admiral Roland Guilbault, they chose to settle in Vero Beach 15 years ago. They sought out a space on the sea full of light and a place reminiscent of her childhood days on the shores of the Mediterranean.
A visitation will be held at the Strunk Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 9, from 5-7 p.m. Later this year, a private family service will be held in Arlington, Va., where she will be interred next to her husband.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to The VNA Hospice House of Vero Beach.
An online guestbook is available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.