Mary E. Gilligan, age 70, of Brooklyn passed away Wednesday, March 4, 2026. She was born August 27, 1955 in Brooklyn, NY. She is the daughter of the late James and the late Loretta (Larkin) Gilligan, cherished sister of Laura (Bill), James Gilligan and the late Thomas Gilligan. She is the adored aunt of Kaitlin Waller.
Mary was a lifelong resident of Mill Basin whose needs were simple and whose joys were sincere. She found delight in life’s everyday moments—whether enjoying a pastrami sandwich from the Mill Basin Deli, a roast beef sandwich from Brennan & Carr, or an Italian favorite from Landi’s Pork Store.
Mary graduated from Mary Queen of Heaven and Madison High School. She had a gift for connecting with people, turning strangers into friends. Through her regular chats with neighbors and local shop owners, she showed genuine interest in their lives, always remembering the small details that mattered.
Mary showed everyone around her what is truly important: family, faith, community, perseverance, joy, and love. Nothing brought her more happiness than being surrounded by family during birthdays, holidays, and especially Christmas. She shared a particularly special bond with her niece, Kaitlin Waller, and cherished every moment spent together.
Mary’s family is deeply grateful to the community for the kindness, love, and support shown to her throughout her life, especially following the heartbreaking loss of both parents within months of each other. Despite adversity and health challenges, Mary remained courageous and resilient. Her presence, warmth, and generous spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew her. May her reunion in Heaven with her beloved parents and brother be joyous.
Family will receive visitors at the wake service on Monday March 9, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Marine Park Funeral Home, 3024 Quentin Road, Brooklyn, NY 11234, 718-339-8900.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday March 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Mary Queen of Heaven Roman Catholic Church, 1395 East 56th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11234.
Committal service will immediately follow at Old Tennent Cemetery, 454 Tennent Road Manalapan Township, NJ 07726.
To send a floral tribute please contact Floral Fantasy at 718-238-6978.