Vera Ellen Gillette, 87, of Carbondale, PA, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at home.

Born March 27, 1938, in Carbondale, PA, she was the daughter of the late Paul Sweder, Sr. and Mary Grizzanti Sweder.

Vera was a kind spirit with a heart of gold. An avid accordion and piano player and talented painter, she found joy in music and art. Above all, she treasured time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and her beloved cat, Peek-a-Boo and dog, Spooky. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she had a special way of making those around her feel loved. One of the most cherished memories her family will hold dear is the recorded birthday messages she sent each year-a small but heartfelt tradition that brought joy to all who received them. Her charities included but not limited to the PA lottery.

Her family will forever be grateful for the love she shared as a sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Vera's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A special thanks to Allied hospice nurses and aides that cared for her with love and dignity.

Vera is survived by her children, Maria and husband, Thomas Walter of Carbondale, PA, Sheila Seana and fiancé, Michael Palmer of Browndale, PA, and Paul Douglas Gillette of Carbondale, PA. She was a beloved grandmother to Carly, Jessie, Jason, and Nathan; and a cherished great-grandmother to Brooke, Talan, Micaela, and Aveline. She is also survived by her siblings, Paul Sweder, Jr. and his wife, Kathy of Carbondale, PA, and Elaine Sweder of Carbondale, PA.

She was also preceded in death by her son, Robert Gillette, Jr.; her sister, JoAnn Brownell; and her former husband, Robert Gillette, Sr.

Viewing hours were held Monday, March 17, 2025 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Carmine J. & Louis C. Parise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 89 Farview Street, Carbondale, PA. A Catholic blessing service was held at 7 p.m. by Deacon Patrick J. Massino, of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Carbondale, PA.