Mark W. Gilman

Mark Wesley Gilman

"Gilly," "Big Guy," "Snack Man"

Beloved Husband, Father, Uncle, Papa, and Friend

Mark Wesley Gilman, 75, a lifelong resident of Weymouth, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024, at South Shore Hospital. Known for his larger-than-life personality, kind heart, and unmatched sense of humor, Mark lived a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished connections.

Born on February 1, 1949, Mark graduated from Weymouth North High School in 1968, where he excelled in the automotive program at the vocational technical school. Shortly thereafter, he proudly served his country as a Vietnam Veteran in the U.S. Army, a testament to his deep sense of duty and honor.

For over 30 years, Mark worked as a big-rig truck driver before fulfilling a dream of becoming a shuttle bus driver at South Shore Hospital. When in South Weymouth, every time he would see the busses shuttling around he would tell us that he really wanted that to be his next occupation – so he made it happen. For more than two decades, he loved his role, safely transporting colleagues in all weather conditions while sharing stories, laughter, and developing friendship. Known for his “gift of gab” and quick wit, Mark formed countless bonds, considering many of his co-workers part of his extended family.

Mark shared an incredible 52-year marriage with his childhood sweetheart, Deborah “Debbie” (Pitts) Gilman. Having grown up as next-door neighbors, their love story began in their teens and flourished in the family home built by Mark’s grandfather in North Weymouth. Together, they raised two devoted daughters, Lisa Rabideau (husband JP) and Robin Wong (husband Ricky), and shared in the joy of three beloved granddaughters, Lauren and Meghan Rabideau and Reagan Wong, who were the light of Mark’s life.

Mark’s generous spirit and love of life were evident to everyone who knew him. Whether he was sharing one of his many humorous tales, whipping up a meal in the kitchen (leaving behind an impressive mess), enjoying a summer day by the pool, enjoying a Sunday drive with Debbie or watching NASCAR races, Mark brought joy and warmth to every moment. He loved animals of all kinds and enjoyed when the grand dogs would come for a visit so he could spoil them with tasty treats. Mark was well known as the king of the best snacks in the neighborhood and he became the go to for the neighborhood kids when they needed a sweet or salty snack fix – this is where he earned the well-deserved title of “snack man”. He had a heart as big as his frame, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.

Predeceased by his parents, Virginia (Pratt) and Arnold Gilman, and his brother, Ross Gilman, Mark is survived by his loving wife Debbie, his daughters and sons-in-laws, his treasured granddaughters, several nieces and nephews, and countless friends who were his chosen family. 

Mark would want his life to be celebrated, not mourned. He would raise a cold beer in gratitude to everyone who filled his days with love and laughter and encourage all to do the same in his memory (responsibly of course!).

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 1-4 PM in the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home NORTH WEYMOUTH at 40 Sea Street (off Route 3A - Bicknell Square). 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mark’s honor may be made to the Veterans of Weymouth, c/o Weymouth Veterans Services, 182 Green Street, Weymouth, MA 02191.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. They would also like to share their deepest gratitude with the incredibly dedicated, skilled and compassionate care providers across the many South Shore Health facilities who have cared for him over the years.