May 1, 2024
Gemelli, Mary J.
Mary Jane (Benson) Gemelli, a lifelong resident of Dedham, died Sunday, April 28, 2024 at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Needham after a brief illness. She was 82. Mary was born October 15, 1941 in Dedham, the daughter of Arthur P. and Selena F. (Whitelock) Benson. Mary graduated from Dedham High School with the Class of 1959. Mary was a Past President and Executive Board Member of the Ladies Auxilliary of American Legion Post 18 in Dedham, as well as a District 6 Director. Mary loved Booster Bingo in Dedham and she enjoyed knitting and reading. She was the wife of the late Francis J. Gemelli who predeceased her in 2006, and the twin sister of the late Alice White, and sister of the late Joan Robbie. Mary is survived by her son, Francis Arthur “Buddy” Gemelli, and his fiance Cynthia Leavitt, of Sanford, Maine; her daughter, Selena Hasenfuss, and her husband Kevin, of Falmouth, Massachusetts; her five grandchildren, Crystal Hasenfuss of Millis, Brian Hasenfuss of Bellingham, Neil Hasenfuss of Falmouth, April Gemelli of Terre Haute, Indiana, and Anthony Gemelli of Lee, New Hampshire; and her three great grandsons, Brady, Patrick, and Evan Hasenfuss. Private interment was in Brookdale Cemetery in Dedham. In lieu of flowers donations to HESSCO ( for Meals on Wheels), 545 South Street, Suite 300, Walpole, MA 02081 would be appreciated.
I was planning on visiting her Sunday. When i returned from my week off after tax season and had a message from her saying she was spending the weekend at the hospital in Needham. She wondered if my daughter Anne still worked there. Needless to say I was in a state of shock when Linda called Sunday morning.
Her life was you kids. I feel as if I know each of you personally.
My prayers are with you all. I can’t believe what you are going through. Contact me if you need anything.
At least I hope she didn’t suffer.
Peace and prayers are with you all.
Lovd ya Mary- Rest in Peace (and help the Red Sox)