Gail M. Puris

Holden –Gail M. (Mietkiewicz) Puris, 69, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 after a prolonged battle with breast cancer. Born and raised in Worcester, she was the daughter of the late Chester and Rose (DiPillo) Mietkiewicz. Gail was a graduate of Burncoat High School, Class of 1974, and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Education from Westfield State University. She devoted her life to teaching, with a passion for working with students with special needs. Over the course of her career, she touched countless lives, dedicating many years of service to Wachusett Regional High School. In retirement, she continued to find joy and purpose in tutoring her students.

Gail shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband, Philip J. Puris. Together, they made their home in Holden, where they raised their family and celebrated 46 wonderful years of marriage. Gail enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—biking, long walks, and traveling—especially the family trips to Eastham. Every spring, Gail looked forward to working in her gardens and tending to her plants. Above all, she found her greatest happiness in her family and took immense pride in being grandma Nonni.

Gail only ever showed positivity and strength in the face of cancer treatment. She was determined to have joyful days despite her diagnosis. Gail will be lovingly missed and remembered by her husband Philip Puris; her daughters, Kristina Puris and her partner, George Lambertson of South Burlington, Vermont, and Elizabeth Prentice and her husband, David, of South Portland, Maine; her brother, Lester Mietkiewicz and his wife, Cindy, of Millbury; her sister, Andrea Mietkiewicz of Old Town, Maine; many nieces and nephews; and her adored grandchildren, Lucille Lambertson and Isabella Prentice. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Susan Weaver.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial calling hour from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215.