OBITUARY: Mary Gail (MacDonald) Ross, 74

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Mary Gail (MacDonald) Ross, age 74, formerly a long-time resident of Wilmington, MA, passed away at her current home in Port Charlotte, FL, on February 16th, 2025.

Mary Gail was born on May 21, 1950 in Waltham, MA, she was the daughter of the late Ernest & Cecelia MacDonald of Waltham, and is survived by her two cherished brothers, Glenn MacDonald of Atlanta, GA and Wayne MacDonald of Saco, ME. Mary Gail was the beloved wife of the late Larry Ross Sr., devoted mother to her two sons Larry Jr. and Douglas, and doting grandmother to Julianna Ross, all of Port Charlotte, FL. She is further survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and close friends, both old and new.

Mary Gail attended Waltham High School and Middlesex Community College in Lowell, MA. She spent her life always embracing, caring for, and helping others. She was a beautiful woman inside and out with a heart of gold, a magnificent smile, and a genuine kindness that drew everyone to her. Mary Gail refrained from drama but was always a comforting encourager when times were tough, and she made it easy to be her friend. She was an amazing homemaker, gardener, quilter, knitter, and avid reader and librarian, among many other things, like cooking and baking. She was a culinary whiz, especially famous for her delicious chili and Scottish shortbread.

She was proud of her Scottish heritage and enjoyed attending the Highland Games, parades, historical events, life-honoring gatherings, and many other festive occasions with her beloved Larry Sr. who she was always there to support as a professional bag piper. They were an inseparable couple; a perfect match from beginning to end. She loved her family more than anything. Mary Gail took great pride in caring for her boys who grew up to be dignified yet humble men with integrity like their father. Her granddaughter lit up her world and she boasted about how intelligent, creative, and talented Julianna is. She especially enjoyed reunions and spending time with extended family and good friends. She was easy to be with and always fun to be around. Mary Gail had the absolute best laugh and brought so much joy to so many lives, including her precious Jack Russell’s; the great, late Ernie, and her sweet surviving Ladybug. They were both a big part of the family and her favorite thing to do was walking them along the harbor.

Mary Gail had faith in God, true belief in Heaven, and looked forward to being with the Lord and reuniting with loved ones there, especially the love of her life, Larry. She enjoyed learning about God and His promises. She was a woman of unwavering strength and remarkable independence. Mary Gail is an inspiration who will forever live on in the hearts of those she loved.

Family and friends are welcome to gather for a Service to celebrate Mary Gail’s life at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62) Wilmington, MA on Saturday, June 7th at 1:00 p.m. All will be encouraged to share a story or precious memory in her honor. She will be laid to rest with her beloved Larry in a private burial service.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Nichols Funeral Home, Wilmington, MA. To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit their website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.