After a long and full life, Gilda passed peacefully at home on October 7, 2025, at the age of 102.

Family and friends were everything to her. In addition to her daughter Janet Marinelli, her son-in-law Don Hooker,her grandson George Marinelli and his partner Rodney Hiner, she is survived by a multitude of beloved nieces, nephews, grand-nephews and grand-nieces, great-great nephews, kids that she “adopted” who remained lifelong friends, and neighbors who doted on her as if she were one of their own. Holidays at her house were always unforgettable occasions when family and friends squeezed around ping-pong tables to enjoy day-long, five-course Italian meals. An avid cook, she never let anyone leave her home without, in the words of one of her favorite nieces, “a full belly.”

She will forever be remembered for her strong opinions, her generosity, and her loving presence.