Theresa Gilson Barlow

Theresa Gilson Barlow, a beloved and vibrant presence in the lives of her family and friends, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on January 21, 2025. Born on March 15, 1934 to John A. and Helen M. Gilson, Theresa grew up as the middle of five children in a lively and loving home. 

She graduated from Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring, Maryland, in 1952 and went on to build a distinguished career, working at the Naval Ordnance Laboratory and retiring from the National Bureau of Standards. Theresa was a woman of deep faith, regularly attending St. Michael's Catholic Church in Silver Spring and later the Church of the Little Flower in Bethesda, Maryland and finally, St. Katharine Drexel in Frederick, MD. 

Her devotion extended to her community, as she found joy in volunteering for Cardinal Hickey, offering her time and organizational expertise. She devoted daily time to praying for her family, friends, as well as world issues. Preceded in death by her loving husband, Wallace D. Barlow; her stepsons, Douglas and Chris Barlow; her brother, John A. Gilson, Jr. (Jack); and her sister, Betty Hobbs, Theresa carried their memories with grace and warmth. 

She is survived by her sister, Paula Gilson Hunter; her brother, Michael J. Gilson; stepdaughter, Elizabeth Barlow, and her step-grandchildren, Julia and Forrest Barlow, along with many other family members who loved her dearly. 

Theresa was the heart of her family. Voted “wittiest” in high school, she was known for her cheerful and lighthearted personality. She attended every birthday party, wedding, and family event for her nieces and nephews, offering her unconditional love and support. As the "social hub," she brought people together with her infectious laughter and radiant spirit, planning action-packed Halloween parties, hikes, ski trips, etc. International travel was also a passion for her, as she toured Europe many times. Theresa was also an accomplished seamstress and spent many happy hours sewing, creating beautiful and cherished pieces for her family. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, solitaire, word-finds and playing Kings Around the Corner where her competitive nature often shone. 

Theresa's kindness, humor, and unwavering positivity touched everyone she met. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives she enriched.

 A funeral mass to celebrate Theresa's life will be held at St. Katherine Drexel in Frederick on Thursday, February 6 at 11:00 a.m. preceded by a visitation on Feb. 5 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Stauffer Funeral Home, 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick, MD.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Katharine Drexel Church, Frederick, MD. Rest in peace, dear Theresa. Your light will continue to shine in our hearts.