Barbara E. Gilson Memorial Scholarship Fund

In Memory of Barbara Gilson: Accomplished Artist. Devoted Teacher. Experienced Farmer

Barbara Gilson of Broad Brook passed away on Friday, September 2nd at Hartford Hospital after a long and courageous battle with diabetes complications. She was 76.

Barbara devoted more than 40 years teaching art studies at East Windsor Middle and High Schools. She was named Teacher of the Year in 1996 and was the first teacher to be inducted into the East Windsor High School Hall of Fame in 2003. She was universally loved by her students, building warm and enduring relationships while enthusiastically encouraging their creativity. She mentored many students long after they graduated from EWHS, maintaining meaningful connections with them as they progressed through their careers. And she delighted in having taught many children of her students over the years, sharing her special gifts across generations.

Barbara also loved the family farm and every aspect of nature and its beauty. Gilson Farm and Greenhouses has been a local favorite for pick-your-own blueberries, produce and flowers for more than 60 years. She built the same kind of wonderful relationships with those who visited the farm as the students she loved to teach. Her magnetic personality and deep interest and care for others were truly remarkable.

In lieu of flowers, her family would like Barbara’s legacy as an artist and educator to live on through future students and have established the Barbara Gilson Memorial Scholarship Fund at East Windsor High School. This scholarship will assist a 2023 graduating EWHS senior who plans to continue art studies. Your contribution will go directly to this scholarship and help spread Barbara’s enthusiasm for education and art to future generations.

Donations of any amount are sincerely appreciated. Barbara would be so pleased to once again help an aspiring student grow and succeed.