Manchester - Mary M. "Peggy" (Bates) Gilman, 67, of Manchester, died peacefully at her home on June 5, 2014, surrounded by her loving family, after a brief illness.Born in Columbus, Ohio, on Aug. 17, 1946, to Harry L. King and Mary E. (Hilyard) Bates, she was raised by her parents, Dr. and Mrs. James C. Bates of Eastport, Maine. She attended Shead Memorial High School, Eastport, Maine, and was a graduate of Kents Hill School, Kents Hill, Maine, and of Rio Grande College in Ohio.In her life, Mary raised her family and worked in Manchester. She was a buyer for Elliot Hospital for many years before becoming a librarian and special needs assistant at Smyth Road Elementary School. After retirement, she returned to Eastport, Maine, where she was a dedicated and compassionate volunteer with Meals for ME and the senior center. Mary was passionate about reading, especially to children, community service, nature and wildlife. She spent the last year of her life in Manchester, spending time with her family, reconnecting with friends and enjoying "early bird specials" and "Sunday sundaes."She was predeceased by her mother; both of her fathers; and her husband, Robert A. Gilman, in 1995.Her family members include her two daughters, Sarah Bates Gilman and Laura Ona Gilman of Manchester; her grandson, John Chester Miller III of Manchester; three sisters, Rebecca L. Laffey and husband Gerald of Garland, Maine, Julia A. Bates and husband Brian Glebe of Bayside, Canada, and Susan H. Burby and husband Brian of Glenburn, Maine; several cousins, nieces, nephews; and her trusty companion, Snoopy. . services: There are no calling hours or services.Memorial donations may be made to the educational institution or animal shelter of one's choice.Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a message of condolence, please go to www.lambertfuneralhome.com.