Mary Grace Gilbert
December 27, 2024 – 11:30am cst
Mary Grace Gilbert (nee Gagnon), known affectionately as Mary or Gracie to her friends, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on February 20, 1950, in the heart of Minnesota, Mary’s life was a testament to the joy and love she brought to everyone around her.
Mary was the luminous valedictorian of her high school class, a reflection not only of her intelligence but also of her commitment to excellence in all she pursued. Her sharp wit and great laugh became her trademarks, as did her love of travel, especially her fondness for cruises which allowed her to explore the world with the same vigor with which she lived her life.
A master at the card table, Mary’s passion for playing Bridge was well known, and she could often be found shuffling and dealing with her friends and family, her laughter punctuating the friendly competition. Games were more than a pastime for Mary; they were a way to connect with her loved ones, especially the kids, who found in her a playful and patient opponent.
Mary’s happy place was anywhere she could be surrounded by people, and her home was always filled with the sweet aroma of her baking, a testament to her skill and her desire to share her warmth in the form of delicious treats. Her grandchildren, Charlie, Laura, and Ellie Gilbert; Claire and Charlotte Willson; and Olivia Watson, will cherish memories of their grandmother’s kitchen, where love was the most important ingredient in every recipe.
She is survived by her devoted children: Steve Gilbert, Jim (Sarah) Gilbert, Cathy (Will) Willson, and Annie (Graeme) Watson. Each of them carries forward her legacy of kindness, generosity, and the simple joy of being in good company. Mary’s brother, Tom Gagnon, and her many nieces and nephews, will remember her as the loving and friendly aunt who always had time for a game, a story, or a comforting hug.
Mary’s life was a portrait of love and kindness, and those who knew her would describe her as the embodiment of these virtues. Her presence was a gift, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
As we bid farewell to Mary Grace Gilbert, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by an unyielding zest for life and a profound ability to connect with others. Her laughter will echo in our hearts, and her memory will continue to inspire us to embrace each day with the same love and enthusiasm she did.
In honor of Mary’s remarkable life, a visitation will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 9:00 am – 10:45 am at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien. Prayers will begin at 10:45 am followed by a procession to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church for an 11:30 am Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations to West Suburban Humane Society at www.wshs-dg.org/get involved/donate are appreciated.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary , please visit our floral store.
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