Ana Maria (Ocampo) Gilleo

Ana Maria “Anita” Gilleo, 87, of Winthrop, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by love on December 28th, 2025.

A devoted wife, cherished friend, and beloved member of her community, Anita will be remembered for the warmth of her heart, her beaming smile, the depth of her faith, and the beauty she cultivated both in her garden and in the lives of those she touched.

Born on November 13, 1938, in Villa Hermosa, Tolima, Colombia, Anita grew up surrounded by the natural splendor that inspired her lifelong love of plants and birds. With courage and hope, she later journeyed to the United States, where she began a new life with her beloved husband, Arthur. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and open doors for all—family, friends, and neighbors alike.

Winthrop embraced Anita with kindness, and she, in turn, embraced her new home wholeheartedly. She learned the language, immersed herself in American culture, and became a treasured part of the community she would cherish for the rest of her life.

Anita had a welcoming spirit that drew people in. Her home was a place of comfort, where the aroma of her delicious cooking filled the air and every guest felt like family. She tended her garden with devotion, surrounding herself with greenery and vibrant blooms, and cared lovingly for the birds whose morning songs brought her much joy.

Her faith guided every aspect of her life. A deeply pious woman, Anita’s love for God shone through her selfless service to others—through volunteer work, charitable acts, and participation in prayer groups both in her local parish and in her native Colombia. Her quiet generosity and compassion were a blessing to all who knew her. She had the joy of reconnecting with her family in the last years of her life and her great grand nephews; Henry, Maritza, Erik, Gabriel, Giovanni and Johan will keep her in their hearts as a valuable treasure.

Anita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and companionship. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and beauty that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visiting for Anita will be held on Saturday morning, January 10, 8 - 9:30 followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Michael the Archangel Parish, St. John the Evangelist Church, 320 Winthrop St., Winthrop at 10 AM.

Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden

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