Among the highlights of her civic activities was her involvement with the Girl Scouts. She served as a Girl Scout for 70 years. As a girl member she progressed to Golden Eaglet, the highest girl award in Girl Scouts at the time.
Cele’s love of and commitment to Girl Scouting continued throughout her adult life. She was a Troop Leader and President of the Woonsocket Council; she worked on the GSUSA Committee for establishing area councils and served on the Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of Rhode Island, Inc. She was a National Council Delegate many times.
Cele’s devotion to camping brought rewards to many Girl Scouts. She was a Camp Trainer and headed the Committee for Camp Development. She chaired the Campership and Wider Opportunities task groups. Many of the structures that grace our camps today are enjoyed because of the physical, financial, and persistent efforts of Cele Leclaire.
Generations of children and adults throughout the area have benefitted from Cele’s many talents, her generosity, and her love of people.
Cecila “Cele” Leclaire
1912-1992
Cele was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. She received a Bachelor’s degree in education from Rhode Island College, and a Master’s degree from New York University.
During the 30 years she taught in the Woonsocket school system, her career included teaching physical education, tutoring homebound children, and teaching third grade.
Cele was a community minded woman who worked with the American Heart Association, Visiting Nurses, United Way, Hospital Aid, Red Cross, and the Trinity Club.