Obituary of Gisele M. Chaires

Gisele M. (Godbout) Chaires, of Woburn, MA, formerly of Grand Falls, New Brunswick, Canada, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Sunday, April 20, 2025. She was 81 years old.

Born in Grand Falls, Gisele was one of ten children of Alphonse and Ida (Beaulieu) Godbout. She grew up in a lively, loving household and received her education in her hometown. Always drawn to beauty and elegance, Gisele attended cosmetology school and became a skilled hairdresser. With her father’s help, she opened a salon in the front of their home—a dream that brought her great joy and pride. At that time, she expected a quiet, fulfilling life rooted in her community. But fate had other plans.

Gisele was undeniably stunning—always impeccably dressed with perfect hair and makeup. Her style, poise, and beauty earned her the title of Miss Grand Falls at the Grand Falls annual Potato Festival.

Her life took a new turn when she met a young Air Force serviceman, Frank Chaires, at the Cobra Club just outside Loring Air Force Base in Maine. Their first two meetings were unforgettable—first as a radiant redhead, and then with a striking silver hairstyle. Frank didn’t realize at first that it was the same captivating woman both nights. Once the connection was made, a romance blossomed, and they married a year later in Grand Falls.

As the wife of a career Air Force member, Gisele embraced the challenges and sacrifices of military life with independence and grace. Soon after their first child was born, Frank was deployed to Pakistan, and Gisele remained in Canada with her baby and family. Over the years, the family moved frequently, living at Hanscom Air Force Base in Bedford, MA; Torrejón Air Base in Spain; Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland; and then back to Hanscom in the late 1970s. No matter where they were stationed, Gisele was the queen of packing and unpacking, creating a warm and loving home every step of the way.

After Frank’s retirement and after a couple moves to Texas, Gisele finally had the opportunity to settle down in their own home in Burlington, MA—a place that quickly became a central hub for family, laughter, and love.

Family was always Gisele’s greatest joy. With each move, she made sure her children were well supported, welcomed into their new communities, and surrounded by care. Through the years, Gisele held several jobs outside of the house, including at the military clothing store, the base commissary, as a nanny, a clerk at the Amish Trader, and finally at the Hanscom Federal Credit Union. She found joy in helping others, building lasting friendships, and staying active.

Her children leaned on her through every move, new school, and challenge. She was their rock. When she becameMemère,” she stepped into the role with boundless enthusiasm. Her home was a haven for her grandchildren—popsicles always in the freezer, the candy jar full of treats, and summers filled with pool days and laughter. She never missed a game, recital, or school event. Holidays and birthdays were always celebrated in style, with love at the center.

Gisele remained deeply connected to her Canadian roots. She returned often to visit her mother, siblings, extended family, and childhood friends, ensuring her children knew and appreciated their heritage. The bond she shared with her siblings was extraordinary. Despite living in different countries and states, they spoke frequently, sharing stories, laughter, and life’s ups and downs.

Gisele will be remembered for many reasons—her timeless beauty, youthful spirit, and impeccable fashion sense. She had a gift for making the most of every situation and could stretch a dollar with grace. A talented seamstress and self-taught decorator, she made every space feel like home.

But what truly made her unforgettable was her heart. Gisele was spirited, independent, kind, generous, and full of love. She lit up every room she entered, always with a smile and a warm presence. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave and the lives she touched.

She will be deeply missed and forever lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Gisele was the beloved wife of 47 years to Francisco “Frank” Chaires, who passed in 2014.  She was the loving mother of Rafael & his wife Sharon of Maysville, NC, Andy & his wife Karen of Woburn, Stefan & his wife Sara of Melrose, and Denise Gracie of Woburn. She was the sister of Louis Godbout of Bristol, CT, Arcade Godbout of Nova Scotia, Solange Castonguay of Terryville, CT, Patsy Roy of Lewiston, ME, Monique McLaughlin of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, the late Celine Desjardins, Alphonse Godbout Jr., Maurice Godbout, and Annmarie Godbout.  She was the proud “Memere” to Tyler, Breann, Justin, Amanda, Ayden, Amy, Gavin, & Harrison Chaires and Noah, Ryker, and Odin Gracie.  She was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, on Sunday, April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. and will conclude with a funeral service at the funeral home at 3 p.m. 

Memorials in Gisele’s name may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. 

For online guestbook and video tribute, see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net