Rebecca Ann Gillette
August 10, 1965 – October 11, 2025

Rebecca Ann (Throne) Gillette passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, at 6:48 p.m., surrounded by her beloved children, grandchildren, and cherished pets. She was 60 years old. Rebecca was born on August 10, 1965, at 7:07 a.m. in Martinez, California, to Carol Ann Weatherby and Roberto Azcarate. She was later adopted and lovingly raised by Tommy Throne, whom she knew as her father.

She spent her formative years in California’s Central Valley, where she met William Gillette as a young teenager. Their connection was instant, and together they shared a spirit of adventure, traveling across Europe—a journey that deepened Rebecca’s lifelong love of French culture, food, architecture, and art. Upon returning, she pursued her artistic passions at the San Francisco Institute of Art, studying theatre makeup, sculpture, modeling, and painting.

Rebecca and William went on to have two children, Jarred and Lexis, of whom she was immensely proud. Both pursued higher education, earning advanced degrees and working from prestigious institutions including the University of California, Stanford University, and Vanderbilt University. Rebecca’s pride in her children was immeasurable, and she took every opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments.

After her marriage to William ended in 2006, Rebecca relocated to Humboldt County, where she rebuilt her life as a devoted single mother. She worked tirelessly in various roles while searching for her purpose. That search led her to College of the Redwoods, where she discovered a calling in social work. She continued her studies at Humboldt State University, ultimately earning her master’s degree in social work and becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Rebecca dedicated over 15 years to the mental health and wellness of her community, serving through Humboldt County Mental Health Services and most recently with Redwood Rural Health Center. Her compassion, advocacy, and commitment left an indelible mark. Ever a student of life, she continued to grow and recently became certified in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through the Psychedelic Institute, expanding her ability to heal and support others.

Diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer at the age of 50, Rebecca endured multiple surgeries and several rounds of chemotherapy. She triumphed against the disease and enjoyed seven cancer-free years. Tragically, the cancer returned a year ago and did not respond to further treatment. Despite the immense challenges, she met every moment with courage, tenacity, and grace. She fought fiercely until the end.

Rebecca will be remembered as an inspirational force—bold, courageous, outspoken, and full of light. Her strength touched all who knew her.

She is survived by her mother Carol Lewis; her father Tommy Throne; her brothers Toby and Bobby Throne; her children Jarred and Lexis Gillette; her grandchildren Ohana and DaraDeGrazia; and her beloved pets, Poppy and Simba. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and dear friends who became family.

Special gratitude is extended to those who supported and cared for Rebecca during her final days, especially Chris Breedlove, whose devotion, prayers, and blessings brought her great comfort.

May Rebecca rest in peace, free from pain, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.