GUILFORD- Rachel E. Gilbert, 82, passed away peacefully September 6, 2013, at the Orono Commons, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's. She was born October 10, 1930, in Abbot, the daughter of George and Annie (Knight) Cookson.

Rachel was a strong, friendly and outgoing woman. She was a wonderful cook and loved camping and family gatherings.

She was predeceased earlier this year by her husband of 64 years, Marshall T. Gilbert.

She is survived by 3 daughters, Marsha Quimby and her husband, Randy of Cambridge, Linda Green of Dexter, and Deborah Bailey of Cambridge; 3 sons, Thomas Gilbert Jr. and his wife, Andrea of Guilford, Frank Gilbert and his wife, Linda of Abbot, and Darrell Gilbert and his wife, Bonnie of Ripley; 19 grandchildren; 33 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Alston Cookson of Cambridge, and Everett Cookson and his wife, Pat of CT; and a sister, Flora Smart of Dexter; several nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at a later date, with burial in the Guilford Center Cemetery.

The family extends a special thanks to her loving family of angels at the Orono Commons.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association, 383 US Route One, Suite 2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.

Arrangements by Crosby & Neal, Guilford.