Obituary of M. Ellen Fitzgerald

M. Ellen Fitzgerald, 78 passed away on October 12, 2020 surrounded by her loving children and family. Born on September 4th, 1942 to Howard and Mary (Cornell) Hallion in Somerville, she was the oldest of 8 children whom she loved and was loved by, dearly. M. Ellen was educated by the Sisters of St. Josephs at St. Clements in Somerville and went on to earn a degree from Boston College where she met the love of her life—Gerald Fitzgerald. Much to Gerald’s good fortune, and everyone’s surprise, she married him. Soon after, they moved to Peabody and M. Ellen began their wonderful journey raising their four children and regaining all with songs, stories and kindness. M. Ellen’s early career started as the founder of the pre-school at St. Ann’s in South Peabody. She later became a Pastoral Associate and Director of Religious Education and recently retired after serving 42 years. Ellen is survived by her children Kathleen (& Edward) Stanton, Jennifer (& Tim) Serino, Gerald (& Jodi) Fitzgerald, and Sean Fitzgerald; all of Peabody. She is also survived by her siter Ruth (& Jeff) Bobzin of Harvard, brother Robert (& Misty) Hallion of Westford, and brother William (& Patricia) Hallion of Swampscott. Most importantly, she is survived by 11 of the most extraordinary “Grands” Timmy, Amanda, Abby, Alex, Emma, Olivia, Erina, Patrick, Myles, Xavier and Wyatt. M. Ellen was predeceased by her husband Jerry, her brothers Michael and Howard, her sister Eileen, brothers-in-law Robert Fitzgerald, Herbert Fitzgerald, & Don Fitzgerald. M. Ellen is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Maryann and Brenda Hallion and Pat and Joan Fitzgerald, as well as her cherished nieces nephews, cousins, and extended family: Mary Farrell, Arleen Pettipas and Dianne Broughton. Her little slice of heaven will always be Cedar Grove and Dexter Street where she leaves wonderful neighbors and kindred spirits. M. Ellen recognized that this pandemic presents unprecedented times and expressions of sympathy may not be able to be done in person. In lieu of being there, just be extra kind to each other, and spend a bit more time flying kites, singing songs, or blowing a few bubbles in the wind. Ellen was an accomplished pianist. She passed her appreciation of music to all her children. Ellen was immensely proud of her family and leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories. As her health declined, she often repeated the quote: "It will all work out…all will be OK." Words of wisdom we could all use these days. Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, Oct. 18th from 3-7PM at the Conway, Cahill-Broder Funeral Home, 82 Lynn Street, Peabody to which relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. All attendees are required to wear facial coverings and maintain social distancing as well. Private Funeral Service will be held at St. Ann’s, Lynn Street, Peabody, MA 01960. l