GILFORD ---- Elaine Jane Gagnon, 79, of Gilford, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born in Dover, New Hampshire, on June 27, 1947, Elaine was the daughter of Roland and Aurelienne Dumais. She lived a life marked by generosity, creativity, service, and a deep love for her family and community.
Elaine graduated from New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord in 1973 and began her professional career as a dental hygienist, working for Dr. Leo B. Sanfaçon. Later, she joined her husband, Jerry Gagnon, Jr., at JG Realty, the company Jerry founded, where together they built not only a successful business but a lifetime of relationships and friendships throughout the Lakes Region.
To say that Elaine was a pillar of the Gilford community would be an understatement. She devoted countless hours to causes and organizations she cared deeply about, serving on nonprofit boards, the Gilford Historical Committee, and the Gilford Budget Committee. She helped restore the historic Rowe Farmhouse, created costumes for the Gilford High School drama department, and spent many joyful hours building floats for Gilford Old Home Day celebrations. As a proud member of the Gilford Rotary Club, Elaine believed that communities thrive when people give of themselves.
Elaine had an extraordinary gift for making life more beautiful. Her flower gardens were lovingly cultivated and admired by many. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, and creating with her hands. She loved to travel and spoke often and passionately about her trip to Italy. She cherished the ocean, carrying fond memories of spending her teenage years on the sands of York Beach.
She was also known for her impeccable sense of style. Elaine never left the house without looking her best. Her hair was always perfectly done, her jewelry thoughtfully chosen, and her purse and outfit carefully coordinated. Friends often remarked on how elegant and put together she always was.
A true social butterfly, Elaine had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome. She was loyal, compassionate, and a fierce defender of those she loved. Her family and friends knew that if Elaine cared about you, she would stand beside you without hesitation.
Above all, Elaine's greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of many years, Jerry Gagnon, Jr., who lovingly honored her wish to remain at home throughout her illness and cared for her with unwavering devotion until her final days. She is also survived by her son, Michael, and his wife Amber, and by her beloved grandchildren, Olivia Marie and Maxwell James, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.
She is also survived by her brothers, Russell Dumais and his wife, Sundee of Gilford, and David Dumais and his wife, Diane of Sanbornton, NH, as well as multiple nieces and nephews.
Over the past several years, Elaine courageously faced the challenges of dementia. Though the disease slowly changed so much, it could never diminish the love she gave, the lives she touched, or the legacy she leaves behind.
Elaine often reminded those around her, "Il y a toujours un truc" — "There's always something." It was a phrase that reflected both her humor and her understanding that life inevitably brings challenges, but also that they can be met with grace, resilience, and love.
Her legacy lives on in the gardens she planted, the traditions she helped create, the community she strengthened, and the family she cherished. She will be remembered for her warmth, elegance, creativity, and the countless ways she made the Lakes Region a better and more beautiful place.
Calling hours and a Celebration of Elaine's Life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Carriage House at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, New Hampshire. The family invites all who knew and loved Elaine to join them in celebrating a life so beautifully lived and so deeply loved.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services / 603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.