Her greatest love was family
MELROSE — Jane P. Killeen, age 75, of Melrose, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 29, surrounded by her loving family at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.
She was the beloved wife of James Killeen, her partner in life for 54 beautiful years. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter and treasured memories. Jane was the love of James’s life and his devotion to her never wavered. Through every season and especially during her final days, he remained by her side, tirelessly ensuring she felt safe, cared for and deeply loved.
Jane was a devoted mother to four children: Jennifer Killeen of Reading; Lauren Mourad and her husband Edward of Norwood; Timothy Killeen of Wakefield; and Sarah Kozlowski and her husband Michael of Reading.
Her greatest joy in life was being “Nana” to her nine adored grandchildren: Megan Pappo, James, Ryan, Samantha and Shay Mourad; and Emerson, Troy, Brooke and Whitney Kozlowski. She never missed an opportunity to cheer them on, celebrate their milestones and remind them how much she cherished them. Jane loved taking and sharing photos of her grandchildren and was always eager to capture the small and meaningful moments of their lives. Born to the late George F. and Dorothy J. (Dalton) Cogan, Jane is also survived by her devoted sister Patricia Sullivan and her husband Jack of Somerset and her loving brother Daniel Cogan and his wife Leslie of Stoneham.
A proud graduate of Stoneham High School, Class of 1969, Jane had fond memories of her time on the St. Patrick’s Drill Team. She formed lifelong friendships during those years, especially with Dottie (Sheridan) Conn with whom she shared a special bond. Together they were part of the “Dirty Dozen” a close-knit group of friends whose connection supported her throughout life.
Jane spent her career in medical office management where she was known for her kindness, steady presence and strong sense of responsibility. She took pride in building relationships with patients and being a familiar and trusted face in their lives. She had a natural gift for making others feel comfortable and enjoyed engaging in warm, thoughtful conversation with everyone she met.
A lifelong dog lover, Jane found comfort and companionship in her dogs especially during her courageous and prolonged battle with cancer. Their presence brought her peace and joy in challenging times. More than anything, Jane’s greatest love was her family.
Her legacy is one of unwavering devotion, quiet strength and the deep relationships she cultivated throughout her life. She will be profoundly missed and her light and spirit will continue to shine through the lives of all who knew her.
Visiting hours were held on Monday, May 5 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the McDonald-Finnegan-Anderson Funeral Home, 322 Main St., Stoneham. A funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, May 6 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, 71 Central St., Stoneham. Interment will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery, Stoneham. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations were made to the American Cancer Society, 3 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. Visit mcdonaldfs.com.