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Alice Jane (Gobar) Malley, 89, wife of the late John “Butch” Malley, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 23, 2026, surrounded by her beloved family.
Born and raised in New Britain, Alice was the youngest of four children of the late Frank Gobar, Theresa (Rook) Gobar Mbakatselos, and stepfather, Samuel Mbakatselos. A 1956 graduate of New Britain High School, she carried with her a lifetime of cherished memories from her childhood, especially times spent with her parents, grandparents, and large extended family at the family farm, Timberhill, in Cromwell. Alice had a lifelong love for the beach and treasured her summers along the shores of Rhode Island, where she found peace, joy, and lasting memories with those she loved most. She especially cherished times spent with dear friends who are fondly known as “the gang.”
She and Butch shared 60 years of marriage. Together, they made their home in New Britain, where they raised their two children and built a life centered on family and community. Alice worked for Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, and Leclerc & Fortier Insurance where she had the fortune of making a lifelong friendships; and later retired from B. Perkins Insurance where she was known for her dedication and warm spirit. Beyond her professional life, she was a selfless and active volunteer in her hometown, generously giving her time to the Jr. Women’s Club, Saint Joseph School, and Saint Thomas Aquinas High School in her younger years.
To know Alice was to feel loved. Affectionately known as “Mimi,” to not only her two adored granddaughters but all who crossed her path. She was the heart of her family, a constant source of comfort, kindness, nurturing and support. No request was ever too great; she gave of herself endlessly, always putting the needs of others before her own and never judging others. Her legacy of selflessness, warmth, and unconditional love will live on in the countless lives she touched.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Brian and Heidi (McGloin) Malley; her daughter Terri (Malley) Petronio; and her two granddaughters Faryn Malley and Carlene Petronio who were her pride and joy; several nieces, nephews and dear friends. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers Robert and Francis Gobar and her sister Rosalie (Gobar) Tracy.
In lieu of flowers, Alice may be remembered with contributions to the Alzheimer's Association, 10 Executive Dr., Suite 202, Farmington CT 06032 or http://www.alz.org/ct or to an organization benefiting animals.
Family and friends may gather on Monday March 30, 2026 from 5-7 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday March 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. meeting directly at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 94 Broad St, Plainville. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com
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