Gayle M. Hickey

Gayle M. Hickey, 80, passed away at home on Friday, March 27, 2026. She is survived and greatly missed by her three children - Patricia Hickey of Salem, Steven Hickey of Douglas, and Michael Hickey of Sutton, and her three grandsons. She was predeceased by her daughter Karen Ann in 1979 and her husband John “Jack” T. Hickey, Jr. in 1998.

Born in Worcester on July 9, 1945, Gayle was the daughter of the late Salvatore “Butch” and Rena (DiCicco) Buffone. She graduated from Venerini Academy, Salter Secretarial School, and Quinsigamond Community College.

Gayle built a long and accomplished career at UMass Hospital marked by excellence and leadership. Starting in the Department of Surgery and Trauma and later advancing to Office Manager and Supervisor in the Division of Endocrinology. She helped coordinate the Endocrinology Fellowship Program, playing a vital role in supporting medical education and patient care. After retiring, she stayed active, working at Baby’s R Us in Millbury, where her warmth and friendliness were appreciated by coworkers and customers alike.

Helping others came naturally to Gayle. She was a licensed EMT, coached soccer in Sutton, and served as a group leader for the Camp Fire Sparks and Cub Scout Troop 143. Under her guidance, Michael became an Eagle Scout, and Steven, a Star Scout, milestones she was very proud of and testament to the values she nurtured. Her service extended beyond youth programs as she contributed her time to her community by serving on the Sutton Conservation Commission and the Earth Removal Board, always looking to make a positive difference.

Gayle will be remembered for her quick wit, her playful sense of humor, and the way she could make anyone laugh and feel at ease. She would go out of her way to help someone or pick up a small gift just because she was thinking of them. Simply by being herself, she had a way of brightening days and leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Above all, family meant the most to Gayle. She loved her children and grandsons deeply and took great pride in them. She will be remembered for her humor, her generosity, her unconditional love, and the way she cared for everyone around her.

Per Gayle’s wishes, her burial will be private. Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel is honored to assist the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gayle’s memory may be made to the Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts, Boston.