Gail A. "Spiro" Protopapas

Gail A. Protopapas (Spiro), age 85, a beloved and longtime resident of Wilmington MA, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, surrounded by the warmth and love of her devoted family.

Born in Boston on August 6, 1940, Gail was the cherished daughter of the late Louis and Veronica (Croasdell) Spiro. She spent her early years in Falmouth and Oak Bluffs on Cape Cod, where her lifelong love of the ocean first took root. As a teenager, she moved to Wakefield and graduated from Wakefield High School, forming friendships and memories she would carry throughout her life.

In 1959, Gail married her soulmate, Donald Protopapas, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and deep family bonds. In 1964, they purchased their "forever home" in Wilmington, where they raised their children and became deeply embedded in the fabric of the community.

Family was at the heart of everything Gail did. She was a loving wife, a nurturing mother, and a doting "Gamma" to her two granddaughters. She never missed a school play, sporting event, or special milestone, always showing up with unwavering support, encouragement, and pride. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she was a guiding presence in theirs.

Gail's love for her community ran just as deep. A tireless volunteer and civic-minded neighbor, she was a familiar and cherished presence at the Wilmington Senior Center, where she served on the Board of Commissioners and played a key role in the establishment of the new center. She enjoyed participating in trips, exercise classes, and social events, always bringing her vibrant spirit to every gathering.

Her commitment to giving back was remarkable. Gail was a passionate supporter of veterans, generously giving her time to organizations like iPods for Veterans and Local Heroes in Wilmington. She knitted and crocheted countless blankets and hats for veterans and never hesitated to contribute to causes close to her heart.

Gail also gave her time to the local voting booths during town elections and delivered Meals on Wheels, brightening the days of seniors with her cheerful demeanor and kind heart. She was a member of a local knitting group that made hats, booties, and blankets for the Linus Project that were delivered to premature babies in area hospitals - just one more way she shared her love and talent with those in need.

She was a proud member of the Tewksbury-Wilmington Lodge of Elks, where she volunteered at numerous functions and fundraisers. Gail was also a gifted athlete. She and Don enjoyed many years playing tennis as part of the Wilmington Tennis Ladder, and she played softball with the Sweetheart Plastics women's league for years.

Gail found peace and joy in sailing and being on the ocean with family and friends, and her love of music was infectious. She was the self-proclaimed #1 fan of the Bucket of Blues Band and could often be found cheering them on with a smile and a song in her heart.

Gail will be fondly remembered for her unconditional love, radiant smile, and her unmistakable laugh that could light up any room. Her warmth, kindness, and generosity touched countless lives. She had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and loved, and her legacy of compassion will live on in everyone who had the honor of knowing her.

She was truly one of a kind. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend, neighbor, and community member. Gail A. Protopapas leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, service, and joy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Gail was the beloved wife of the late Donald G. Protopapas, devoted mother of Lee Anne Peters and her husband Michael of Park City, MT, John D. Protopapas and his wife Deborah of Newbury, MA, and Charles A. Protopapas of Wilmington, MA. Loving "Gamma" of Samantha Protopapas and Elizabeth Protopapas. Dear sister of Philip Spiro and his wife Kathy of Martha's Vinyard, MA, James Spiro and his wife Susan of Rhode Island, Lois Robblee of Peabody, MA, and the late Robert Spiro and his wife Nancy Spiro of Falmouth, MA. Gail is also survived by her nieces, nephews, and friends.

Family and friends are welcome to attend Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Saturday, September 20th from 1:00-3:00 p.m. followed by a Service to Celebrate Gail's life at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gail's memory may be made to the MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844 or to IPODS for Wounded Veterans, 4 Heather Drive, Wilmington, MA 01887 or online at ipodsforwoundedveterans.org

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com