Nancy (Sarno) Gilchrist, 69, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport, Massachusetts, following a long journey with dementia.

Nancy grew up in Wakefield, Massachusetts, and graduated from Wakefield Memorial High School with the Class of 1975. She was the youngest of four children born to the late Carmino and Blanche Sarno. She was predeceased by her sister, Bonnie Bellefeuille, and is survived by her two brothers, Steven Sarno and Michael Sarno.

Nancy was the beloved wife of Gordon Gilchrist, with whom she shared 46 years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered around their family, spending much of their married life in Reading, Massachusetts.

Nancy worked as an office manager for Ken-Bar for many years. Following the sale of the company, she embraced a new chapter in her life, caring for her first granddaughter, Nora, while her parents worked. This special time together was just another example of Nancy’s devotion to her family and the joy she found in being there for those she loved.

Above all else, Nancy was a loving and devoted mother who always put the needs of her family before her own. Quiet by nature, she had a gentle and caring heart and showed her love through the countless little things she did every day. She was always there when her children needed her, offering comfort, support, and unconditional love. Taking care of her family wasn’t just something Nancy did; it was who she was.

Nancy enjoyed sewing, crocheting, baking, and especially shopping. Some of her daughters’ most cherished memories are of the weekends spent shopping together and the Halloween costumes Nancy lovingly made for them by hand. She had a special way of making ordinary moments feel special, creating traditions and memories that her family will treasure forever.

Nancy leaves behind her four children: Gregory Gilchrist and his longtime partner Katherine Finn of Salem, Massachusetts; Gordon Gilchrist of Amesbury, Massachusetts; Lauren Maloney and her husband, James, of North Reading, Massachusetts; and Ashlyn Gilchrist and her longtime partner, Keith O’Rourke, of Pelham, New Hampshire.

She was also the loving grandmother of seven grandchildren: Nora, Kendall, Gavin, Samantha, Delaney, Hazel, and Rylee.

Nancy will be remembered for her quiet strength, her selfless love, and the countless ways she made life special for those she loved. Although dementia changed so much in her later years, it could never take away the love she gave or the beautiful memories her family will carry with them.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A service is being planned and details will be shared shortly. Please continue to check back for additional information.

Assisting with arrangements is the Cremation Society of New Hampshire, Hampton. To view Nancy's online tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit www.csnh.com.