Candid wrote: How can you gently remove her from your life?
I agree with Candid here and in my opinion this falls under the broader umbrella of 'conflict resolution' skills.
One way to resolve conflict is to create distance, to remove yourself from the situation or relationship. That is a perfectly useful tool.
But, be careful with your stated avoiding group events because this person is there or will attend. That can have negative if not counterproductive consequences.
The same as you studied hard and graduated with a degree, you can learn conflict resolution. Like anything else, education and application. Learn how and then apply.