Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Velvet V. Giorlando (Rose), affectionately known as “Vel,” age 80, of Wilmington, passed away peacefully at her home on June 22, 2026.
Born on July 12, 1945, Vel was the beloved daughter of the late Manuel and Anna (Whitney) Rose. Raised and educated in South Boston, she graduated from South Boston High School, where she formed many lifelong friendships that she cherished throughout the years.
In 1964, Vel married her childhood sweetheart, Robert “Bob” Giorlando. Together they built a beautiful life, first in South Boston, where they began raising their family, and later in Wilmington, where they settled in 1974. In their new neighborhood, Vel and Bob quickly became treasured friends and neighbors, creating lasting relationships that would span decades.
Vel’s greatest joy was her family. She created a warm and welcoming home filled with love, laughter, music, and dancing. Her door was always open, and everyone who entered was made to feel like family. An extraordinary cook and baker, Vel had a remarkable gift for preparing delicious meals from scratch and loved gathering family and friends around her table. Whether hosting a holiday celebration, a family dinner, or a neighborhood gathering, she had a special talent for making every occasion memorable.
A gifted baker and cake decorator, Vel delighted loved ones with beautiful cakes and pastries for birthdays, holidays, and special milestones. Her creativity also extended to crocheting, where she lovingly crafted treasured gifts for family and friends.
Vel was immensely proud of the family she and Bob built together. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her role as “Nannie” was one she embraced wholeheartedly. She faithfully attended school events, sporting competitions, and celebrations, offering endless encouragement, support, and unconditional love to those she adored.
A social and vibrant woman, Vel enjoyed the company of friends and was known for her infectious spirit. Music played a special role in her life, and she and Bob shared a passion for collecting records. Their home was often the gathering place for friends and neighbors on Friday evenings, where records spun, laughter filled the air, and dancing continued late into the night. Her favorite artist, Rod Stewart, could often be heard playing loudly as Vel sang along to every word.
In her younger years, Vel enjoyed bowling leagues, ceramics classes with friends, and many creative pursuits. She was an avid reader who especially loved murder mysteries, never missed an episode of Family Feud with Steve Harvey, and could solve nearly any crossword puzzle or complete any jigsaw puzzle she set her mind to.
Vel and Bob shared a love of travel and created many cherished memories together. Hawaii and Aruba were among her favorite destinations. In later years, they enjoyed spending time at the Wilmington Senior Center, where they participated in activities, socialized with friends, and shared many enjoyable afternoons playing bingo.
Vel will be remembered for her kind heart, endearing personality, many talents, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and joyful memories. Her signature Amaretto on the Rocks, warm smile, and welcoming spirit will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Beautiful inside and out, Vel’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of those she loved.
Vel was the beloved wife of 62 years to Robert “Bob” Giorlando; devoted mother of Diana LeBlanc and her husband, David Ross, of Londonderry, New Hampshire, and Robert Giorlando Jr. and his wife, Susan, of Wilmington. She was the loving “Nannie” of Brad LeBlanc and his wife, Ashley; Danielle McEneaney and her husband, Stephen; Tyler LeBlanc; Daniel Giorlando; and Scott Giorlando; and cherished great-grandmother of Gianna, Brody, Riley, Everley, and Brandon. She was the dear sister of Manuel Rose III of New Hampshire and the late Annabelle “Prudy” O’Brien. Vel is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.
Family and friends are invited to gather for Visiting Hours on Monday, June 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Avenue (Route 62), Wilmington. A Service to Celebrate Vel’s Life will follow at 12:00 noon.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Velvet’s memory to Shriners Children’s Hospital, Office of Philanthropy, 51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114.
Like Wilmington Apple on Facebook. Follow Wilmington Apple on Twitter. Follow Wilmington Apple on Instagram. Subscribe to Wilmington Apple’s daily email newsletter HERE. Got a comment, question, photo, press release, or news tip? Email wilmingtonapple@gmail.com.
Wilmington Apple 