Geraldyne Grace DeBettencourt of Oak Bluffs died on Dec. 19 at the Cape Heritage Nursing Home in Sandwich.

She was born on Feb. 7, 1931, in Oak Bluffs to Marion Pacheco DeBettencourt and John A. DeBettencourt Sr.

Gerry, as she was known, served the town of Oak Bluffs as the first woman selectman and also as a parks commissioner, with devotion. She was well known for her coffee shop, which she began at the young age of 18. This was an accomplishment admired by many. Gerry was her own personality who believed in family, faith, hard work, independence and her community with sincere compassion.

It was difficult for Gerry not being in her home or even on the Island the last few years.

She is survived by her sister, Ruth D. Metell of Oak Bluffs; her brother, Richard J. DeBettencourt of Oak Bluffs; her sister, Gaynell E. Downs of South Hadley; and her sister, Brenda Frederick of Fitchburg. She was predeceased by her sister, Violet Rego, and brothers John A. DeBettencourt Jr. and Melvin DeBettencourt of Oak Bluffs. Many nieces and nephews also survive her.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Dec. 23 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church officiated by the Rev. Michael Nagle. Interment followed at Sacred Heart Cemetery.