Priscilla J. Shaw
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Priscilla J. Shaw, 56, of Gilford, N.H., passed away at her home, from a lengthy illness, on Tuesday, September 8th. She, and her husband, Richard Shaw, had celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on July 13th. They had moved to Gilford in April of 1999, from Newmarket, NH.

Cilla, as most everyone knew her as, was very active at a young age, in town, state, national politics, and the Newmarket community.

Her political interest started when she worked on Mel Thompson’s campaign, for Governor, in the 60’s. From there Cilla’s interests changed, as she worked on Huge Gallen’s race for Governor.

After Gallen won, Cilla went on to work as an assistant at the Governors energy office. Cilla’s public and community service started with Supervisor of the Checklist, and went on to the Recycling Committee. Cilla was later voted on to the Newmarket Town Counsel, where she was voted to the Chair for a term. In between these, she also helped Jeanne Sheehan run for State Senate.

Cilla’s national interest started when Jimmy Carter ran, and was elected. One of the high points in her life was to be invited to the inaugural ball, following Carter’s win. From there Cilla worked on many other campaigns, including both of Bill Clintons.

In the early 80’s Cilla was hired by Director Anne Peters as a part time grant writer at Lamprey Healthcare, in Newmarket. While at Lamprey, Cilla helped start their Senior Transportation Program. She was also a Board Member at COAST during its start up years. She was instrumental in beginning the “Operation Santa Clause” Program, which provided toys and clothes for the needy children in town. Priscilla also received the Richard S. Lockhart Citizen of the Year award in 2002, from the Seacoast United Way. Cilla was promoted to other positions while at the non-profit, and ended her career there as Associate Director.

Cilla was an avid, and sometimes rabid fan of U.N.H. Men’s Hockey, the Red Sox, and NASCAR racing. She enjoyed living, boating and swimming in the lakes region. Cilla was also a cat lover, a wonderful wife and mother.

Cilla leaves her parents Barbara (Shaw) and Robert Belcher, of Christmas, Florida, two sisters, Kathy and Terry of Titusville Florida, and a brother Robert Belcher Jr. and family of East Kingston, New Hampshire. Cilla leaves three nieces, Ashanna Belcher, Bethany Belcher, both of Exeter, and Carly Belcher of East Kingston. She also leaves two nephews, Daniel and Nicolas Scuturo, both of Christmas, Florida. Cilla also leaves many friends and loved ones from the New Hampshire seacoast and the State Capital, to the Lakes Region.

Cilla was also a Justice of the Peace, marrying four couples, all of which are dear friends.

A memorial service will be held later in October. Beginning on the 5th of October, those who wish to attend may call either 603-293-2906 or 207-748-1004 for the day, time, and directions to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Stratham ASPCA, Lakes Region Humane Society, or to Operation Santa at Lamprey Healthcare.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 164 Pleasant Street, Laconia, N. H. is in charge of the arrangements.