Doris Gaythwaite

Crossing guard, avid doll collectorPEABODY - Doris (Rich) Gaythwaite was born October 18, 1923 to George and Zilpha Rich in Lynnfield, MA. She married John I. Gaythwaite on June 28, 1943 and they constructed their own home in Lynnfield, MA after WWII. They raised two sons; John W. and Gary G. Gaythwaite in Lynnfield where they resided until 2005. Beyond 68 years of harmonious marriage she and John were childhood best friends that became lifetime loving companions. They moved to Brooksby Village in Peabody, MA in September 2005 where she resided until her death on September 9, 2011.Doris was very active with many outside interests and was always happy to help others. She was perhaps best known in Lynnfield in her role as a crossing guard at the various schools as a traffic supervisor for the Lynnfield Police Department for over 41 years. She enjoyed working with the school children and was very popular. Doris was an avid doll collector and member of the Doll Club of America and local doll club and ran a crafts program at the Greenwood Nursing home in Wakefield, MA. She enjoyed playing the piano and organ and had an active interest in ceramics as well as pencil drawings and water colors. She enjoyed working in her colorful rock garden and was well known for her festive holiday decorations and bringing the family together for seasonal celebrations.Her home was a popular stop for Halloween Trick or Treaters and she enjoyed showing her doll collection to many of her school crossing children as well. Swimming and ice skating were among her favorite sports activities.Doris is survived by her husband John, her two sons and wives, John W. and Michele R. of Manchester, MA and Gary G. and Kim Gaythwaite of Phippsburg, ME.Service Information: A private graveside service for immediate family only is planned. In lieu of flowers, a contribution in her name may be made to; Kaplan Family Hospice House, 78 Liberty St. Danvers, MA 01923.