Obituary for Nora M. Reilly (Gallagher)
Nora M. (Gallagher) Reilly, 87, formerly of Auburn, died peacefully on Tuesday January 7, 2020. The family was blessed to have Nora as a loving mother. Those lucky enough to have known her would attest to her positive influence and generosity of spirit. A great listener, she always had a kind word and was willing to share her candid opinions and perspectives. Her warmth, and loving presence will be dearly missed. The kettle was always at the ready in her welcoming home, for a cup of tea, laughter and guiding wisdom.
Born and raised in Drummin, Co. Mayo, Ireland, Nora was one of nine children born to the late Edward and Bridget (Kilcoyne) Gallagher. She was educated in Ireland, before immigrating to the United States. Nora and her husband Michael, settled in Worcester, MA, where they raised their five children. She entered the workforce and enjoyed her job as a Mental Health Assistant at Worcester State Hospital for 25 years until she retired in 1993.
Nora was predeceased by her loving husband, Michael J. Reilly, in 1981 and beloved daughter Betty Ann Gorodeckas in 2017. In addition, she was predeceased by her eight siblings, Patrick, John, Mary, Michael, Bridget, Anthony, Peter and Martin.
Nora was a devout Catholic and a faithful member of North American Martyrs Church in Auburn. Her practical insights were a reflection of her love of life and strong faith in God. Whether it was dancing with family and friends at The Irish Club, eating out, or going to the beach, Mom was always great company. With a book in hand, suitcase packed, her adventures often took her back to Ireland and many other parts of the world where she always fit in. Spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her the most joy.
Nora is survived by her children, Francis P. Reilly and his wife Diane of Charlton, Kevin M. Reilly and his wife Christine of Sutton, Theresa Reilly Dowd and her husband Fred of Princeton, Noreen M. Valentino and her husband Scott of Oxford, Son-in-law Vin Gorodeckas of Charlton, thirteen grandchildren, Joel, Devon, Lauren, Katlyn, Jonathan, Lindsay, Neil, Blair, Thomas, Justin, Meaghan, Chelsea, and Michael; eight great-grandchildren, Kaylie, Reilly, Colin, Dylan, Louie; Hawk; Coleman, Blake; and many nieces and nephews; along with extended family in the U.S., Ireland, and England.
The Family would like to thank the staff at Notre Dame Nursing Facility for the loving care they extended to “Aunty Nora”.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Nora’s family between 4:00 and 7:00 PM on Thursday January 16, 2020 at the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central Street, Auburn, MA. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday January 17, 2020 at North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn, MA. Burial will be with her husband at St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Notre Dame Long-Term Care Center (Harmony Village), Worcester, Ma. or Bright Focus Foundation, Alzheimer ’s disease.
You will always be in our hearts.
Born and raised in Drummin, Co. Mayo, Ireland, Nora was one of nine children born to the late Edward and Bridget (Kilcoyne) Gallagher. She was educated in Ireland, before immigrating to the United States. Nora and her husband Michael, settled in Worcester, MA, where they raised their five children. She entered the workforce and enjoyed her job as a Mental Health Assistant at Worcester State Hospital for 25 years until she retired in 1993.
Nora was predeceased by her loving husband, Michael J. Reilly, in 1981 and beloved daughter Betty Ann Gorodeckas in 2017. In addition, she was predeceased by her eight siblings, Patrick, John, Mary, Michael, Bridget, Anthony, Peter and Martin.
Nora was a devout Catholic and a faithful member of North American Martyrs Church in Auburn. Her practical insights were a reflection of her love of life and strong faith in God. Whether it was dancing with family and friends at The Irish Club, eating out, or going to the beach, Mom was always great company. With a book in hand, suitcase packed, her adventures often took her back to Ireland and many other parts of the world where she always fit in. Spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her the most joy.
Nora is survived by her children, Francis P. Reilly and his wife Diane of Charlton, Kevin M. Reilly and his wife Christine of Sutton, Theresa Reilly Dowd and her husband Fred of Princeton, Noreen M. Valentino and her husband Scott of Oxford, Son-in-law Vin Gorodeckas of Charlton, thirteen grandchildren, Joel, Devon, Lauren, Katlyn, Jonathan, Lindsay, Neil, Blair, Thomas, Justin, Meaghan, Chelsea, and Michael; eight great-grandchildren, Kaylie, Reilly, Colin, Dylan, Louie; Hawk; Coleman, Blake; and many nieces and nephews; along with extended family in the U.S., Ireland, and England.
The Family would like to thank the staff at Notre Dame Nursing Facility for the loving care they extended to “Aunty Nora”.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Nora’s family between 4:00 and 7:00 PM on Thursday January 16, 2020 at the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central Street, Auburn, MA. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday January 17, 2020 at North American Martyrs Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn, MA. Burial will be with her husband at St. John’s Cemetery, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Notre Dame Long-Term Care Center (Harmony Village), Worcester, Ma. or Bright Focus Foundation, Alzheimer ’s disease.
You will always be in our hearts.