OBITUARY: Gloria A. Szabo, 97

Below is an obituary from NIchols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — Gloria A. Szabo (Jarossi), age 97, a long-time resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours of April 12, 2026.

Born on February 21, 1929, in Boston, Gloria was the cherished daughter of the late Nicola and Philomena (Guarino) Jarossi. She was raised and educated in Watertown, MA, where she attended Watertown Public Schools and graduated from Watertown High School. A lifelong learner, Gloria continued her education at Middlesex Community College and UMass Boston.

Gloria married the love of her life, Miklos Szabo, and together they shared many wonderful years surrounded by family and friends until his untimely passing in 2001. In July of 1962, they made their home in Wilmington, where they raised their family in a home filled with love, laughter, music, and joy. Gloria was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, and her family remained the center of her world.

A dedicated and hardworking professional, Gloria began her career as a medical secretary at Tewksbury Hospital before joining the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Over nearly 50 years of service, she held several roles across various departments, earning a reputation as a trusted and committed employee. She retired in 1996 as a Management Analyst with the Department of Environmental Protection.

Gloria’s vibrant personality and warm spirit made her a friend to all who knew her. She was outgoing, sociable, and brought energy and joy to every gathering, especially at the Sons of Italy and the Wilmington Senior Center. She had a deep love for music and dancing and embraced many hobbies that contributed to a full and joyful retirement.

Deeply involved at the Wilmington Senior Center, Gloria generously gave her time and talents in countless ways. She was a proud member of the “Fun Singers” and participated in a group that performed at local nursing homes, bringing smiles and laughter to residents through music, humor, and playful costumes. Bringing happiness to others brought Gloria great joy.

Gloria will be fondly remembered for her kind and generous heart, her unwavering love for her family and friends, and her willingness to help others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Gloria was the beloved wife of the late Miklos Szabo; devoted mother of Diane Bryce of Wilmington, Ted Szabo of Billerica, and Jay (Diz) Dizacomo of Wilmington; and loving grandmother of Eric Ryals of Pelham, NH, and Dr. Devlin Dizacomo of Denver, CO. She was also the cherished “adoptive mom” of Louis Szabo of Manchester, NH and Elizabeth Pelletier of Enfield, CT. She was the dear sister of the late Mary Ballantine and Arthur Jarossi and his late wife Sally of Maine. Gloria is also survived by her nieces Wendy Mosher and Elizabeth Perry, as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Gloria’s life on Sunday, April 26th, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Rocco’s Restaurant, 193 Main Street (Route 38), Wilmington. where all can share treasured memories and have a bite to eat.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gloria’s memory to The Wilmington Senior Center, 130 Main St., Wilmington, MA 01887 please put for ” The Fun Singers” in the memo line.

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