Sally Lee Gunning, 88, a longtime educator, talented artist, devoted wife, and cherished friend, passed away on September 1, 2026.
Born in Boston on May 27, 1938, Sally overcame significant illnesses as a child and later several battles with cancer. Her resilience and determination allowed her to live a long, full life devoted to the people and things she loved.
Sally spent approximately 40 years teaching mathematics at John Glenn Middle School in Bedford, Massachusetts. She was a dedicated teacher who cared as much about her students as she did about the math she was teaching. That genuine interest in others stayed with Sally throughout her life. She always wanted to know what was happening in your life before telling you about her own.
At the center of Sally's world was her beloved husband, Larry Gunning, a Boston firefighter for approximately 25 years. Sally and Larry were inseparable, enjoying skiing, camping, golfing, cruising and simply spending their lives together. Following Larry's death in 2003, Sally developed a passion for painting. Her work, particularly scenes of oceans, flowers and golf, earned several awards.
Although Sally and Larry did not have children of their own, there were many students whose lives they touched deeply over the years. Sally and Larry became cherished pieces of many families, attending celebrations and special occasions and remaining important in their lives long after the school years ended.
In 2017, Sally moved from her longtime Tewksbury home to the Hunt Community in Nashua, where she enjoyed the activities, friendships and companionship around her. She will be remembered for her warmth, resilience, creativity and remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed and important.
SERVICES
Thursday, September 10, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Visiting Hours
12:00 PM
Funeral Service
Tewksbury Funeral Home
1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury, MA
Burial will follow in Tewksbury, where Sally will be laid to rest with her beloved Larry.
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Lahey Clinic
Attn: Philanthropy Department
41 Mall Road
Burlington, MA 01805