Karen Reilly

On April 17, 2025, we said goodbye to Karen F. Reilly (Dixon), a woman whose love shaped generations. For 54 years, she stood beside her beloved husband John J. Reilly and through the years, she became the heart and soul of our family-a devoted mother, grandmother, adoring great-grandmother and true matriarch. Karen passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after a long and hard fought battle with cancer. Karen was born in Brockton, MA on December 16, 1952 to parents Viola and Gilbert Dixon. She grew up in Brockton, MA where she graduated from Brockton High School in 1969. Shortly after graduating she married the love of her life, John J. Reilly, and together they had 2 children Dineen and John. Karen devoted many years to running a home daycare, which she loved deeply. Her passion and where she dedicated the remainder of her working years was with the Massachusetts Housing Authority where she served as Executive Director for the towns of Raynham, Hanson, and Rockland. Karen had a deep appreciation for art, antiques and the simple joys of a day spent shopping. She had a keen eye for beautiful antiques and paintings, always able to spot the charm and story in each one. She also had a love for travel. Some of her favorite moments were spent on family trips to New Hampshire and Cape Cod. She especially enjoyed cruising with her husband, with their trips to Bermuda and England holding a special place in her heart. Karen is survived by her husband John J. Reilly of East Taunton, MA, her daughter Dineen Reilly-Galvez of East Taunton, MA, grandchildren: Brittannie Baracewicz and husband Phillip of Mendon, MA, Melanie Ashburn and husband John of North Attleboro, MA, Tyler Galvez of Lakeville, MA, John J. Reilly Jr. of Windsor CT., Stephen Galvez of Berkley, MA, Juliana Galvez of Berkley, MA, Briana Galvez of Berkley, MA, great grandchildren: Kayleigh Baracewicz and Elliana Ashburn, and Siblings: Lu-Ann Smith of Marshfield, MA, Gilbert (Bud) Dixon of Largo, FL, and Thomas Dixon and wife Lisalynn of East Taunton, MA. Karen is proceeded in death by her parents Viola and Gilbert Dixon, her son John Reilly Jr. and sister Sally Dixon. Funeral visitation will be held at O’Keefe-Wade Funeral Home, 70 Washington St., Taunton, MA 02780 on Thursday, April 24th from 10:00am-12:00pm. A funeral home service will be held at 12 pm. Burial will be at Pine Hill Cemetery in West Bridgewater.

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