Gail Patricia Buckley

HOLDEN- Gail P. (Swanson) Buckley, 81, died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on the morning of July 4, 2023. She was born in Worcester, the daughter of Kenneth W. and Alice B. (Healy) Swanson and graduated from Fitchburg High School.

Gail went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude from Worcester State College, earning a Bachelor's in Mathematics in 1976. During her career, Gail worked as a computer programmer for several companies including New England Electric Co., Coppus Engineering and Norton Co. before going into business for herself as a consultant.

Upon her retirement in 2010, Gail developed a passion for gardening and was particularly dedicated to hybridizing daylilies. She was a long-time member of the Holden Garden Club, the New England Daylily Society and the American Daylily Society. She loved touring gardens, taking several trips around the country attending national conventions.

An avid mahjong player, Gail found much enjoyment spending time with friends for their Thursday games, and weekend trips to New York.

Although she rarely shared them with others, Gail had strong spiritual beliefs which guided her in life and provided her with much love and contentment.

Gail will be lovingly missed and remembered by her husband of 62 years, John F. Buckley; her sons, John (Jay) Buckley III of Thompson, CT and Timothy Buckley and his wife, Cheryl of Paxton; her brother, William Swanson and his wife, Lucy of North Andover; her sister, June Swanson of Millbury; her grandchildren, Kelsey and Drew Buckley; as well as several nieces and nephews. Gail was predeceased by her brother, Kenneth Swanson, her sister, Eleanor Swanson and her cousin and close friend, Carolyn McCrohon.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial calling hour from 2 to 3 p.m. followed immediately by a memorial service at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance PO Box 32141, New York, NY 10087-2141. To share a memory or offer a condolence please visit "The Tribute Wall" on this page.