Ann E. (Lillis) Callahan

Ann E. (Lillis) Callahan, of Centerville, formerly of Needham and Waltham passed away at her home in Centerville on Wednesday, October 26th, surrounded by family and friends. She was 68 years old. Ann had been bravely battling cancer since June.

Ann graduated from Waltham High School in 1972 and then attended New England Baptist School of Nursing, graduating in 1975. She continued her education at Emmanuel College, earning her Bachelor of Nursing Degree. Ann worked at the New England Baptist Hospital for the past 47 years as a Senior Charge Operating Nurse.

Ann is known for her loving and caring ways, whether it be with her children, grandchildren, friends, relatives, co-workers or patients. If you were sick or suffered some misfortune, Ann would appear with a homecooked meal and treat. She is remembered as being a gracious hostess who encouraged gatherings for both her family and friends. Many a night was passed at Ann's house with singing and overall joviality. Her sense of humor, warmth and welcoming manner, endeared people to her. Her main passion was spending time and traveling with family and friends.

Ann leaves behind her three children, Thomas Callahan and wife, Mary Kate of Walpole; Michael Callahan and wife, Caitlin of Medfield; Lauren Goulet and husband, Michael of Milton, as well as her seven grandchildren, James, Sean, Molly, Teddy, Harry, Catherine, and Patrick; her brother, Stephen Lillis and wife, Kathryn Gantman-Lillis of Framingham; her mother-in-law, June K. (Kelley) Callahan of Waltham; in-laws, Sheila Callahan Lee (Charles) of Burlington and Barnstable and Rev. James F. Callahan SMA of Worthington, Minnesota; as well as many cousins, friends and co-workers. Because Ann is such a special person, she will be sorely missed by many.

Ann is predeceased by her husband, Thomas B. Callahan († August 26, 1988) and her parents, Peter and Frances Lillis; and brother PJ (Peter Joseph) Lillis.

Family and friends will honor and remember Ann's life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20) on Friday, October 28th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and again at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday morning before leaving in procession to Saint Jude Church, 147 Main Street, Waltham where her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. Her brother-in-law, Rev. James F. Callahan SMA will officiate. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham.

Memorials in her name may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Boston MA. 02215 or www.dana-farber.org.