Marie Elizabeth Gallivan, a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother, passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025, at Lahey Hospital in Burlington after an extended illness. She was 77 years old.

Marie was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the daughter of Eugene and Helen Cullinane. She enjoyed a wonderful childhood growing up in Arlington and was a proud member of the Arlington High School Class of 1966.

Marie ‘s professional life included several administrative roles in local companies most recently working for 14 years with Tony Modesto, CPA. However, if you asked Marie, she would tell you her full-time—and most rewarding—job was being a wife and mother to her three energetic sons.

Raising three boys in a house full of sports, band practices, and endless laundry was no small feat, but Marie handled it with love and tireless dedication. She kept the household running smoothly—driving to countless baseball, basketball, and football games, tending to every bump and bruise, and ensuring there was always a warm meal on the table. She was actively involved in her sons' lives, even joining the Band Boosters to support their many activities.

Marie believed deeply in raising her children with strong values, good manners, and respect for others—and she never hesitated to offer firm but loving guidance when needed. She always looked forward to the holidays and the laughs shared together with family. Trips to Arizona, Florida, and Maryland to visit loved ones gave unforgettable moments, and about ten years ago, she and her husband Jim bought a home in Falmouth. It quickly became the cherished summer gathering place for the entire family. While Marie wasn’t much of a beachgoer, she loved the area’s activities—miniature golf, shopping, and of course, a mandatory stop for ice cream.

One of the greatest joys of Marie’s life was becoming “Nana” to her three grandchildren. She adored them completely—getting down on the floor to play, taking them on adventures, and treasuring their innocence and sweetness. After raising sons, she delighted in having granddaughters to spoil, especially with dresses and outfits from Carter’s—where the cashier knew her by name.

Marie's love story began when she agreed to a blind date with a young man named Jim Gallivan. A beautiful romance followed, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and shared commitment. They were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on November 8th of this year. Saturday nights were reserved as their date nights—often spent enjoying a meal at a favorite local restaurant, sometimes just the two of them, sometimes with friends, always together.

Marie’s legacy is one of love, selflessness, and devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Marie was the loving wife of James F. Gallivan, Jr.  She was the caring and loving mother of James Gallivan of Bejing, China, Bryan Gallivan & his wife Emily of Wake Forest, NC, and Michael Gallivan of Milford & his fiancée Lauren Kutz.  She was the proud grandmother of Zoey, Lucas, and Grace Gallivan.  Marie was the sister of Robert Cullinane of Medford & his late wife Maureen, Richard Cullinane & his wife Patricia of Arlington, Nancy Barsamian & her husband Edward of Arlington, and Carol Cullinane of Woburn.  She was the sister-in-law of Leonard Gallivan, Donna Gallivan, and Beatrice Goodwin.  Marie was also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Friday August 8 from 4 to 7 p.m.  Funeral from the Sullivan Funeral Home on Saturday August 9 at 9 a.m. Followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Margaret Church in St. Veronica Parish, 111 Winn Street, Burlington at 10 a.m.  Services will conclude with a burial at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.

Memorials in Marie’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, https://www.alz.org/manh, 320 Nevada St #201, Newton, MA 02460

For online guestbook and video tribute see www.sullivanfuneralhome.net