Obituary: Mary Cosgrove Gilson

If you ever needed a good laugh, a great haircut, or an enthusiastic reason to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day (whether it was March or not), then you definitely knew Mary Gilson. Following a courageous battle with cancer, Mary found peace on January 19, 2026, at the age of 71.

Mary Margret-Anne Cosgrove Gilson was born in Meriden on June 19, 1954. Mary was the daughter of the late John and Bridget (Kelly) Cosgrove. She graduated from Lyman Hall High School in 1972 and went on to become a hairdresser. For decades, Mary owned Mary's Mane Attractions, where she styled hair, lifted spirits, and formed lifelong friendships, until her retirement in 2016. Mary lived a life defined by kindness, connection, and an open door to everyone around her. If there was laughter, conversation, or a reason to bring people together, Mary was there-always at the heart of it.

Mary was predeceased by her sister, Rita Waldeck, who inspired her decades of work supporting others affected by cancer. As a founding member of the Sisters' Project, Mary was the driving force behind countless fundraising efforts, pouring her heart into supporting those facing the challenges of cancer. Her commitment went far beyond financial contributions - she uplifted spirits, inspired hope, and rallied her community to stand together in support. Her legacy within the Sisters' Project ensured that no one had to face their battle alone. She was also a proud member of the Wallingford Elks Lodge and the Polish National Alliance.

Above all, Mary lived life to the fullest, finding joy in people, celebrations, and the simple moments that make life sweet. She loved to travel and always returned with a great story about her adventures and the new friends she made.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 43 years, James Gilson. She is survived by her step son James Gilson and his wife Sara, grandchildren Shawna and Brent Gilson, brother John Cosgrove and his wife Ann, sister Sue Scarpati, nephews Ryan Cosgrove, Vincent (Kathryn), Kevin (Shelby), Salvatore (Kati) Scarpati, Chad Waldeck and niece Katie Cosgrove, brother-in-law Sal Scarpati and James Waldeck, sister-in-law Kris Gilson (Carla) and many other family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her beautiful smile, caring heart, playful sense of fun, and zest for life.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered as a truly good human being who made every room brighter. She was known for her sense of humor that could make even a stranger feel like an old friend. In essence, Mary showed up - for celebrations, for conversations, for people who needed her. Even in difficult moments, her humor, kindness, and positivity stayed intact. She leaves behind countless friendships, a whole lot of laughter, and memories that will keep resurfacing at dinners, reunions, and parties she would have absolutely loved to attend.

Mary's family will receive friends on Thursday, January 29, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at B.C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 South Elm Street, Wallingford. Following the visitation, all are welcome to continue celebrating Mary's life at the Wallingford Elks Lodge, where an Elks Ritual will be held, and tributes will be offered in her honor. Funeral services will be private.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Uday Lele and the staff of HHC medical oncology and the compassionate staff of MidState Medical Center, Pavilion B, for their care and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's memory to the Sisters' Project, an organization founded on her generous spirit and lifelong commitment to helping others.