Victoria Ann Gilmore-Colaizzi

Victoria Beatrice Ann Gilmore-Colaizzi
February 11, 1950 – July 13, 2025

Victoria Beatrice Ann Gilmore-Colaizzi, known lovingly as Vicki to her family, was born on February 11, 1950, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, to Emily (née Read) and Mike Gilmore.She spent her childhood in both the Brome Lake area of the Eastern Townships and in the city of Montreal, Quebec surrounded by the love of her parents, her older sister, Hetty, and grandparents and many cousins. Victoria attended Edward the Seventh School during her elementary years and later graduated from Knowlton High School, where she was active in the drama club and school band. Victoria had a deep love for reading and writing that began in her youth and continued throughout her life. Her natural musical ability led her to learn and play a variety of instruments, including the bassoon, flute, recorder, piano, and cello. Committed to lifelong learning, Victoria returned to school as an adult, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She continued her academic journey by completing a Master’s degree in Psychology at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was during her time at Duquesne that she met the love of her life, Dr. Paul Colaizzi, one of her professors. They married in 1991 and made their home in Pittsburgh before embarking on a new life adventure together in Arizona, where they lived for 15 years before returning to Pennsylvania and settling in Greensburg. Victoria was a woman of deep faith and embraced the "One New Man" concept, as found in Ephesians 2:15—a belief in the unity and reconciliation of Jews and Gentiles through faith in Jesus Christ. She was a source of strength, wisdom, and prayer for her family, generously sharing her biblical insights and encouraging others in their spiritual journeys. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and love of good coffee and meaningful conversation. Her thoughtful spirit and unwavering faith left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Victoria was predeceased by her parents, Emily and Mike Gilmore; her beloved husband, Paul Colaizzi; and her brother-in-law, Kingsford Flood.She is survived by her sister, Hetty Flood; nephew Rory (Alyson); niece Shelley (Jim); great-nieces and nephews Lauren (Zach), Nicholas, Conor (Kaitlyn), and Ciara; great-great-nieces Hannah and Vivian; stepdaughter Anna Maria (Will); and many cherished cousins and extended family. Her memory lives on in the hearts of all who loved her. A Celebration of her life will take place at a later date, please visit our tribute wall to leave a condolence or share a memory of Victoria.

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