Former Wisbech mayor and community champion Avis Gilliatt has sadly died just four days from her 84th birthday – and when Wisbech Lions had planned a special presentation to her. Avis had been due to be presented with the MJF – Melvin Jones Fellowship – for her contribution to Lions and awarded to those who have made a “tremendous contribution to humanity and to the legacy of our founder, Melvin Jones”.
Wisbech Lion Spike Cee said: “Lion Avis has been with our club for over 20 Years, and she was due to receive her MJF on her 84th birthday on Sunday 6th October, but she sadly passed away on Wednesday 2nd in Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, after a long battle, with her devoted family by her side.”
He added: “However, we know that her wonderful family will be very proud to display her M.J.F.
“She had complete commitment to the community she served and has helped so many people over many years and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.
Avis joined the Lions in 2001 and went on to serve in all officer roles including twice as club president in 2009 – 10, and from 2011 – 12.
She will, of course, also be remembered for her time as Mayor but Avis Gilliatt was for many years an active and passionate councillor, community volunteer, devoted to her family and to Waterlees where she lived and to Wisbech which she served with pride.
Her passing has appropriately been marked by both councils on which she once served, Wisbech Town Council and Fenland District Council
Ahead of one election contest, in 2011, she said: “I have worked for years on this ward including serving on the Oasis Trust and on the cemetery committee and helped to organise Christmas parties for the elderly.
“We need to get people to stand because they care. Look at what Wisbech has left, that’s what you get with one party councils.”
More tributes to her work both within the community and on both councils on which she served are expected in coming days.
A spokesperson for Wisbech town council said: “We were sad to hear that former Mayor, Avis Gilliatt has sadly passed away.
“Our thoughts are with her family at this sad time.
“She was a past councillor for both Wisbech Town and Fenland District Councils; she was Wisbech Town Mayor in 1999-2000.
“Avis had worked for years on Waterlees ward and served on the Wisbech Community Development and also helped to organise Christmas parties for the elderly.”
Wisbech Town Council is flying the flag at half-mast until her funeral, details of which are yet unknown
Avis served as the representative for the Wisbech (North) ward, which later became Waterlees (Wisbech), on Fenland District Council from May 1999 to May 2007.
“During her time on the council, she contributed to several committees, including the economic regeneration, housing, overview and scrutiny panel, and standards,” said a district council spokesperson.
Cllr Nick Meekins, chairman of Fenland District Council, said: “On behalf of the council, I offer our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Avis.”
As a mark of respect, flags at the Fenland District Council offices in Fenland Hall, March, will be lowered until after her funeral.
A minute’s silence will also be held before Fenland District Council’s next full council meeting on Monday 16 December in honour of her years of service.
