George J Gillen

Funeral from the Carroll-Thomas Funeral Home, 22 Oak Street, Hyde Park, MA Wednesday morning at 10AM  followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Anne's Church, Readville at 11AM.  Visiting hours Tuesday evening from 4-7PM at the Funeral Home.  Interment at Mt. Benedict Cemetery, West Roxbury, MA.  Relatives and friends invited. 

George J. Gillen, known affectionately as George to his friends and family, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 1, 2024, at the V.A. Hospital in West Roxbury. Born on July 24, 1933, in Boston, MA, George was the cherished son of the late George and Elizabeth Gillen and a brother to many.

A graduate of Roxbury Memorial High School, Class of 1950, George's life was one of dedication and service, both to his country and his community. After high school, he began working for M.J. Govone Print Company, a job that he would return to with passion after his military service. Drafted by the Army in 1953, George served with distinction in Japan and Korea during the Korean War. He proudly wore the stripes of an Army Corporal until his honorable discharge in 1955.

Returning home, George resumed work at the printing company, a place that would become a cornerstone of his life. His commitment and entrepreneurial spirit led him to eventually take ownership of the company, guiding it successfully for over 50 years. George's brother, John, worked by his side for more than 45 years, and the print shop became a family affair with many relatives contributing over the years.

George's work was his biggest hobby, but his love for family shone equally bright. He cherished visiting relatives, spending time with all his aunts, and taking care of his mother for many years. George was the treasured brother of Barbara Sullivan and her late husband John of Dorchester, John Gillen and his wife Shirley of Plymouth, and the late Joan O'Connell and Elizabeth Macdonald, with her surviving husband James of Hyde Park. His presence will also be deeply missed by his many loving nieces, nephews, and cherished friends who found in him a source of kindness, laughter and gentle wisdom.

In retirement Winters in Boynton Beach and Summers in Provincetown were a special time for George, as were the moments spent sitting at the table, engaging in long talks with family members and friends. He loved to travel and had the pleasure of exploring many parts of the world, including Italy, Greece, Spain, Turkey, Austria and Puerto Rico. These experiences only served to deepen his appreciation for the simple joys of home and sharing good food with family and friends.

George was a man of loving nature, mischievous humor and shrewd business-sense.  He approached life with a warmth that drew people to him and a generosity that touched the hearts of those around him. His legacy is one of devotion—devotion to his work, his country, and above all, his family.

As we bid farewell to George J. Gillen, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as his presence enriched the lives of all who knew him. George's passing leaves a void in the tapestry of our family and community, but the threads of his influence will forever remain woven into the fabric of the many lives he touched.

Rest in peace, George. Your love and light will never be extinguished from the hearts of those you've left behind.

 In lieu of flowers,  donations can be made to the Boston VA Hospital.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George J Gillen, please visit our floral store.