Mary Lancaster Obituary, Death- On a quiet Monday morning at Nantucket Cottage Hospital, beloved Nantucket resident Mary “Goldie” Lancaster died surrounded by memories of a life well spent. She had been deteriorating. Those who knew Mary will miss her and treasure her legacy.
The committed and ardent reporter known as “Goldie” has worked for every Nantucket media organization throughout the years. Her career included The Inky, the Beacon, and cable’s Not Necessarily the Nantucket News. Her persistent pursuit of truth and storytelling brought the island’s stories to life.
Mary was a friend and confidant to many, not simply a reporter. She and her companion, Cheryl Lockwood, welcomed the community, including this obituary writer, in the early 1970s. Free spirits and “hippies” of that era gathered on their second-floor North Water Street apartment to share ideas, laugh, and make friends.
Mary was innovative outside of journalism. Her talent as an artist was fostered at a Hartford department store, where she created captivating ads. She created a metal souvenir box with amusing slogans like “Put Some Pickles On Your Feet!” and “Fish and visitors stink after three days.”
Her art inspired many. It remains a treasured reminder of her creativity and friendship. Mary loved her two kids, Jed (with Will Curtis) and Jake (with Leon Lancaster), as her relationships changed throughout the 1970s. She loved her family and was a great mother even as her island media career grew.
Mary remained a constant for the author of this tribute, who left Nantucket for the military. Mary played godfather or uncle to the author’s children, shared joyous moments in the mall, and enjoyed magic shows and shops throughout their association.
Mary’s passing has allowed for introspection and thankfulness after years of minimal interaction. Even 53 years after our first meeting, we can recall a close friend who shaped us. All who knew Mary benefited from her.
As Mary “Goldie” Lancaster ends her life, we remember the last words she heard that Sunday night: “Now, Goldie… now, soar with the angels.” We shall always remember her, and Dick Arnold and Cheryl Lockwood’s images honor her indomitable spirit and the lives she impacted. All who knew Mary will cherish her contributions to Nantucket Island.
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