Mary Gamache, Beloved Community Member, Passes Away at 88

Mary (Ellis) Gamache, aged 88, of Greenfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025, at Charlene Manor Nursing Home. Born in Londonderry, New Hampshire, to Clifton Fitts Ellis and Alice Mae (Fuller) Ellis, Mary led a life filled with community engagement and family devotion.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Mary began her professional journey at Benson Wild Animal Farm, a zoo and amusement park in Hudson, New Hampshire, during her high school years, where she developed a particular fondness for the elephants. She graduated from Alvirne High School in Hudson in 1955.

In 1960, Mary married George Gamache and moved to Ashfield, Massachusetts. The couple later relocated to Shelburne Falls in 1967. Mary contributed to her community by working at Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School for seven years before transitioning to the banking sector in 1981. She joined United Bank, where she served as assistant branch manager, eventually moving to Greenfield in 1993. After 19 years at the bank, she retired in 2000 as the institution transitioned to Bank of Western Massachusetts.

Family and Legacy

Mary is survived by her daughter Juliana Allard and her husband Robert of Farmville, North Carolina; son James Gamache and partner Donna Bernier of Shelburne Falls; and daughter Suzanne Vight and her husband James of Charlemont. She also leaves behind three grandchildren: Stephen Allard, Dr. Melissa Allard, and Elizabeth Vight.

She was predeceased by her husband, George; her brother, Everett Ellis; her sister, Linda (Richardson) Stanwood; her son Matthew; and her granddaughter Mandi.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Mary Gamache’s life was marked by her commitment to family, her community, and her various professional endeavors, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew her.