Jill Mowry
November 17, 1935 – February 28, 2025
Jill (Gilda) Mowry, of Sun City Center, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. At 89 years young, Jill embodied the mantra of Making Everyday Count.
Jill was a woman of boundless love, unwavering optimism and an infectious zest for life. To Jill, nothing was an obstacle, but an opportunity. She had an innate ability to uplift those around her with her steadfast loyalty and encouragement. If you were lucky enough to know Jill, you had a lifelong champion in your corner.
Her optimism towards life made every gathering and conversation more joyful. Her great style and sparkly shoes always reflected the light she carried within. Though petite in stature, Jill was mighty - a true spitfire!
Jill was born on November 17, 1935, in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, to Adelmo and Mary Pollice. One of five children, she was preceded in death by her dear sister, Palma Pollice Simonette (Joe), and three brothers, Dr. Phillip Pollice (Angela), Felix Pollice and Eugene Pollice.
Jill built a beautiful life with her loving husband, Don, raising their family in Pittsburgh and Washington, Pennsylvania. She dedicated her career to caring for others, having a long and fulfilling career as a psychiatric nurse at both Woodville State Hospital and Highland Drive Veterans Hospital in Pittsburgh. Always embracing new passions, she also found joy dabbling in real estate sales and revitalizing historic homes with her keen eye and creative touch.
After retiring in 2001, Jill and Don settled in Sarasota, Florida, where they spent their days enjoying Siesta Key Beach, playing afternoon bridge and sharing evenings out with friends. Jill honed her bridge skills during this time and achieved Emerald Life Master, a testament to her sharp mind and competitive spirit.
Together, Jill and Don traveled the world during their early retirement, making memories in Italy, Spain, England, France, Germany, Alaska, Hawaii and several cruises, including a 49 day trip around South America. Their shared adventures were a reflection of the deep love and partnership they had built over the years.
In 2010, Jill and Don moved to Sun City Center, Florida, where they made lasting friendships and lived independently until her passing.
Jill will be dearly missed by her devoted husband of 55 years, Donald; her daughter, Karen Leone (Michael); her son, Kenneth Mowry (Elizabeth); and her adored grandchildren, Arden Leone Student (Jack), Marin Leone Hauptman (Bradley) and Cade Mowry; and all those blessed to have known her.
Above all else, Jill was most proud of the family she created and the love she gave and received. Affectionately known as “Mimi,” she was happiest spending time with her family in Florida and weekly Face Time dates when they were not together. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, kindness and an unshakeable belief in the power of joy.
To honor Jill, we invite you to embrace life as she did — hug the ones dear to you, pick up the phone for an “I love you” call and simply make every day count.
In accordance with to Jill’s wishes, the family will hold a private memorial service. Her spirit, love and laughter will forever remain in our hearts.
Jill was a woman of boundless love, unwavering optimism and an infectious zest for life. To Jill, nothing was an obstacle, but an opportunity. She had an innate ability to uplift those around her with her steadfast loyalty and encouragement. If you were lucky enough to know Jill, you had a lifelong champion in your corner.
Her optimism towards life made every gathering and conversation more joyful. Her great style and sparkly shoes always reflected the light she carried within. Though petite in stature, Jill was mighty - a true spitfire!
Jill was born on November 17, 1935, in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, to Adelmo and Mary Pollice. One of five children, she was preceded in death by her dear sister, Palma Pollice Simonette (Joe), and three brothers, Dr. Phillip Pollice (Angela), Felix Pollice and Eugene Pollice.
Jill built a beautiful life with her loving husband, Don, raising their family in Pittsburgh and Washington, Pennsylvania. She dedicated her career to caring for others, having a long and fulfilling career as a psychiatric nurse at both Woodville State Hospital and Highland Drive Veterans Hospital in Pittsburgh. Always embracing new passions, she also found joy dabbling in real estate sales and revitalizing historic homes with her keen eye and creative touch.
After retiring in 2001, Jill and Don settled in Sarasota, Florida, where they spent their days enjoying Siesta Key Beach, playing afternoon bridge and sharing evenings out with friends. Jill honed her bridge skills during this time and achieved Emerald Life Master, a testament to her sharp mind and competitive spirit.
Together, Jill and Don traveled the world during their early retirement, making memories in Italy, Spain, England, France, Germany, Alaska, Hawaii and several cruises, including a 49 day trip around South America. Their shared adventures were a reflection of the deep love and partnership they had built over the years.
In 2010, Jill and Don moved to Sun City Center, Florida, where they made lasting friendships and lived independently until her passing.
Jill will be dearly missed by her devoted husband of 55 years, Donald; her daughter, Karen Leone (Michael); her son, Kenneth Mowry (Elizabeth); and her adored grandchildren, Arden Leone Student (Jack), Marin Leone Hauptman (Bradley) and Cade Mowry; and all those blessed to have known her.
Above all else, Jill was most proud of the family she created and the love she gave and received. Affectionately known as “Mimi,” she was happiest spending time with her family in Florida and weekly Face Time dates when they were not together. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, kindness and an unshakeable belief in the power of joy.
To honor Jill, we invite you to embrace life as she did — hug the ones dear to you, pick up the phone for an “I love you” call and simply make every day count.
In accordance with to Jill’s wishes, the family will hold a private memorial service. Her spirit, love and laughter will forever remain in our hearts.