Alice Marie Gilson

Alice Marie Gilson, born on March 15, 1927, in Wheeling, West Virginia, passed away peacefully at the Good Shepherd Nursing Home on her 99th birthday, March 15, 2026. Her passing marks the end of a long and fulfilling life, filled with love, laughter, and dedication to her family and community.

Alice was the cherished daughter of the late Wilber and Elizabeth (Sprucebank) Coleman. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William C. Gilson, Sr., who passed in 1988, and her siblings: Buddy Coleman, Richard (Dorothy) Coleman, Edward (Mildred) Coleman, Robert Coleman, Harold (Betty) Coleman, Odette Armstrong, Dorothy (Clarence) St. Meyer, Nellie (Thomas) Owings, and he beloved daughter-in-law, Marguerite DeFilipo Gilson.

A proud graduate of St. Joseph Academy in 1945, Alice dedicated her professional life to serving others. She worked as a dispatch operator for the Wheeling Fire Department and later as a switchboard operator for Security National Bank. Her commitment to her work was matched only by her devotion to her faith and community. A faithful member and volunteer at Blessed Trinity until its closure, she was also an active member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and the Legion of Mary.

Alice's vibrant personality was evident to all who knew her. She was always smiling, possessed a great sense of humor, and never minded being the center of a joke. Her warmth endeared her to many, and she adored her family above all else.

She is survived by her loving children: William (Donna) Gilson, Jr., Tim (Cheryl) Gilson, Tom (Stacy) Gilson, Aileen (Joe) Kelly, and James (Carrie) Gilson. Her legacy continues through her 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Alice's life during visitation on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger Street, Wheeling, WV. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 10:30 am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Marshall St., Wheeling, WV, with Rev. Jeeson Stephan as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling, WV.

Alice Marie Gilson will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her joyful spirit, and her boundless love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and laughter that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Alice's family will be forever grateful for the loving care she received from the staff at The Welty Home and Good Shepherd Nursing Home over the past few years. Please consider honoring Alice's life, love and memory with a donation to the the Welty Corporation Resident Activities Fund which aids to the quality of life of patients and residents.