Mimi was born in Providence, Rhode Island to Sydney and Esther Louise Gaisford on December 18, 1934. She attended the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College, earning a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree from Rhode Island College. Mimi was an educator who taught Art Education and History at a middle school in Connecticut for many years. She then relocated to Inverness, Florida to be near her family and taught Art Education and History at a local middle school. Mimi was very involved in “The Order of the Eastern Star” for 65 years. She served as Worthy Matron several times, as well as many other positions in the Order, and took a great deal of pride in all the charitable events while sharing her time and talents. Mimi was an avid reader, fine art enthusiast, boater, golfer, and lover of the outdoors. Her greatest joy in life was being with her family and enjoying every minute of life. She was a talented photographer and an artist. Mimi exceled in drawing, painting, pottery, and handmade crafts.
Mimi is preceded in death by her parents, Sydney and Esther Louise Gaisford.
Mimi is survived by her daughter, Lynn Lavallee, son-in-law, James Lavallee, as well as grandsons Kirby Lavallee, Jesse Lavallee, and Sidney Carroll. She is also survived by her granddaughters Brittany Lavallee and Kristina Lavallee, as well as her great grandchildren Kaia Lavallee, Jade Carroll, and Oli Carroll.
Mimi’s “Celebration of Life” will be held on Monday, November 29, 2021 with a visitation at 10AM, service at 11AM, followed by a luncheon at Blount and Curry Funeral Home located at 3207 W. Bearss Avenue, Tampa, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given as a Tribute Gift to the Alzheimer’s Association so they can continue their important work in providing Alzheimer's care and support, as well as accelerating research.
The Lavallee family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Pastor Dan Middlebrooks, The Order of The Eastern Star, and all our family and special friends for their prayers, love, and support.
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