Mildred C. Mayer, 98, of Gloucester, Virginia, passed away Tuesday, August 2, 2016, surrounded by close family in the home of her granddaughter. 

Mildred was born in 1918 in Union Hill, New Jersey, to her parents, John and Theresa Dubiell. In 1940, she married her sweetheart, Raymond C. Mayer and shortly thereafter moved to Virginia. She was blessed with nine children, 18 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. 

Mildred was a devoted mother and homemaker, an artist, and a visionary. She was blessed with a love of learning, an insatiable appetite for knowledge, and a joyous and charitable nature. She laughed easily, traveled excitedly, and gave generously of her time and talents. It is an understatement to say she will be greatly missed. 

She is survived by her children, Patricia M. Zavada, Robert E. Mayer, Eve M. Geohagan and her husband Jim, Laurence J. Mayer and his wife Marybeth, Joseph E. Mayer and his wife Kim, Mary L. Mayer, and Martin A. Mayer. 

In addition to her husband, Raymond, she was predeceased by her daughter, Kathleen E. Mayer, and son, Raymond C. Mayer II.

Mildred respectfully requested a memorial remembrance party and her wish that everyone be given ample time to gather family and friends together in the Spring when the daffodils and iris abound. If you would like to join in the celebration, please contact Mary Mayer at 123 Stanhope Avenue, Richmond, Virginia. 

Anyone who knew Mildred can appreciate that the Solar Cooker project represents the perfect intersection of science and charity. For the past 15 years, her support gave a useful, practical cooking and water pasteurization alternative to people who live in extreme poverty—in sun-rich, fuel-starved regions. 

Memorial donations may by mail to Solar Cookers International, 2400 22nd Street, Suite 210, Sacramento, California 95818, or online at www.solarcookers.org