Carol Gill

1947 - 2025

East Lyme - Carol Gill, born Dec. 19, 1947, in Chester, Pa., passed away peacefully at home in Niantic Sept. 15, 2025. She was surrounded by her beloved children in her final moments - a quiet and gentle departure that reflected the strength and grace with which she lived her life.
Carol was a woman of remarkable resilience and unwavering kindness. Though she faced many challenges throughout her life, she met each one with courage and determination. She often spoke of her regret at not pursuing higher education earlier in life, but true to her tenacious spirit, she eventually earned an associate's degree - an accomplishment that brought her great pride.
Professionally, Carol built a successful career marked by dedication and leadership. She retired in 2002 from her role as district manager for The Day newspaper. Never one to remain idle for long, Carol embarked on a new venture just a few years later. In 2005, she and her son became owners of Main Brace Package Store in Niantic, a business endeavor that reflected both her entrepreneurial spirit and deep connection to the local community.
Family was the cornerstone of Carol's life. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Tracy Gill Benjamin and husband Dean Benjamin; Edward Gill Jr.; William Gill and wife Giovanna Gill; Heather Gill; and Cara Finan. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Dakotah, Francis, Jameson and Liliana Gill; Kathryn and Liam Avery; and great-grandchildren, Caleb and Aniyah Casillas. Carol also leaves behind her brothers, Edward and Robert Spellacy and their families; as well as her dearest friend Janet Ballestrini, whose companionship brought joy and comfort through the years. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Edward F. Gill; her fiancé, John A. Finan; and her parents, Edward and Roberta Spellacy.
Carol's passions were many. A devoted Boston Red Sox fan, she never missed a season without purchasing tickets - cheering on her team with enthusiasm year after year. She also followed the UConn Huskies with equal fervor. Whether enjoying a meal out or spending time at the beach, Carol found joy in life's simple pleasures.
Beyond these interests lay a generous heart committed to helping others. She quietly sup-ported numerous charities - a reflection of the compassion that defined so much of who she was.
Above all else, Carol believed deeply in the importance of family. She instilled these values in her children through both word and example - teaching them to face adversity with strength, to treat others with kindness, and to cherish every moment together.
May Carol's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her and may the values she lived by continue to inspire generations to come.
Calling hours will be held from 2 to 5 p.m. Sept. 27, at Thomas L. Neilan and Sons, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. At the request of the family, funeral services will be private. The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Hospice of Southeastern Connecticut and the many doctors and nurses who provided compassionate care in her last days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to Care and Share, P.O. Box 314, Niantic, CT 06357 or Hospice of South-eastern CT, 22 Masonic Ave., P.O. Box 70, Wallingford, CT 06492.