Cluett, Elizabeth (Libbie) Gummey died peacefully at home after a long illness on January 13th 2022, in Savannah, Georgia. 

Fittingly, Libbie was born on the 4th of July,1939, and celebrated each day as an opportunity to expand her knowledge, passions, and circle of friends. Clever, warm, and humorous, Libbie was a cherished member of many communities and will be remembered for her intellect and dry -- often self-deprecating -- wit.

Born and raised in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, Libbie was the eldest daughter of Frank and Madeline Gummey and sibling of Jenifer Gajdalo and Frank B. Gummey, III.  A graduate of The Baldwin School and at the top of her class at Hollins College (’61), she excelled in the study of English and French and was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship in 1961 to pursue her passion for French literature and culture at the Sorbonne in Paris. She returned stateside to marry her loving husband, Mark S. Cluett, in 1962 and they spent the next 59 years sharing many adventures and interests including contemporary art, music, gardening, birding, cooking, travel to 22 different countries, sailing, tennis, golf, bridge, crossword puzzles, and poetry.

Passionate about music, Libbie was an accomplished piano player and sang in the choirs of St. Francis by the Sea in Blue Hill, Maine and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Savannah, Georgia, and for many years, served on the Board of Kneisel Hall, a chamber music school and festival in Blue Hill. Libbie was well-known for the clever poems, ditties and skits she wrote and performed (often in colorful costume) for friends at many special occasions.

While raising her three daughters in San Francisco, Libbie generously contributed her time and talent to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and to Marin Country Day School and also served on the Modern Art Council of the SF Museum of Modern Art and as Chair of the Board for The Cathedral School for Boys.

In 1994, Libbie and Mark moved from San Francisco to Savannah, first living at The Landings and since 2012 at The Marshes, where they found great happiness in a vibrant and supportive community. For the last 17 years, Libbie has enjoyed playing golf, tennis, and bridge, singing in the St. Peter’s Episcopal Church choir, and nurturing her passions for poetry, reading, bible study, and film.

Curious about nearly everything and everyone, Libbie made friends of all ages and backgrounds.  Known for her eclectic wardrobe and sparkling personality, Libbie was a welcome guest at any celebration. Her spirit will live on through her children and grandchildren who will relish donning her special outfits in celebration of her love for life and a good party. 

She leaves behind her husband Mark, their three daughters (Amanda C. Stanton, Elizabeth C. Thors, Julia S. Cluett), sons-in-law (William B. Stanton, Reginald F. Thors, and Robert G. Shepley), six grandchildren and her siblings, Jen and Frank.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the many health aides and to Kindred Hospice for their compassionate care of Libbie during the last months of her life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Savannah, GA.

A memorial service will be held this spring at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church.