Obituary of Catherine Reilly

Catherine “Cathy” Reilly passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family, on Friday, July 18, 2025 in Rockaway Township, NJ. She had just celebrated sharing 81 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Born and raised in the outskirts of Athenry, near Tuam, in County Galway, Ireland to the late Ellen (Fahy) and John Long, Cathy was the third of six children to bless the Long household. She graduated from Coolarne Secondary School before immigrating to the United States in 1963. She met her best friend and soulmate, Patrick “Pat” Joseph Reilly, at a dance in April of 1966. The happy couple wed on May 20, 1967 and eventually settled in Edgewater, NJ to raise a family of their own. They were hardworking owners and operators of a lively bar in New York City called The Life of Reilly. When Pat became seriously ill, she was a devoted and unwavering caregiver while raising their young children and maintaining their business. The bar remained open for two years after the passing of Pat, officially closing its doors in 1989. Cathy then began working as a Nanny for a dear family until her favorite job became available — Grandma. She loved spending her days with her treasured grandchildren.

Cathy was a proud Irish woman who loved her pots of tea. She was talented at sewing, knitting and embroidery and was very fond of animals (except mice!). She was devout in her faith and was a dedicated member of St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church in Rockaway. Above anything else, she was the heart of our family — an incredible wife, a proud mother, a doting grandma, and an irreplaceable friend. We will never forget the lessons she taught us, the unequivocal love she showed us, and the joy she gave us while in her presence.

Although we are deeply saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing that she is reunited with her family who went before: her beloved husband, Patrick; her parents, John and Ellen Long; and her brother, Michael Joseph Long. Her legacy will live on forever in the hearts of her adored children, Helen (Lyle) Booth of Rockaway, NJ and Patrick J. Reilly of San Diego, CA; her cherished grandchildren, Collin, Thomas, and Heather Booth; her loving siblings, Mary (Padraic) Murphy, Beatrice (the late Paddy)Tarpey, Evelyn (the late John) Murray, and John (the late Anne) Long; her caring sister-in-law, Mary (the late Joseph) Fitzgerald; her extended Booth family — Noreen (late Alexander); Alex (Robin); Laurie (Mike) Alicke and family, her faithful grand-furbabies— Nico, Riley, Katie, Bonnie, Rocky, and Molly; and many dear nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Relatives and friends are welcome to visit with the family on Monday, July 21st from 4 - 7 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, July 22nd at 9:30 am at Norman Dean Home for Services in Denville. Burial will follow at Madonna Cemetery, 2070 Hoefleys Lane, Fort Lee, NJ 07024. She will be laid to rest with her late husband, Patrick Joseph Reilly, Sr. Memorial Donations are being accepted by way of www.inmemof.org to ensure receipt of your donation to St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center or the Visiting Nurse Association of Northern NJ. The family would like to acknowledge the care and compassion provided by the VNANNJ organization and specifically Carole, Mavis, and Brittany. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, or share your favorite memory of Cathy here to continue to celebrate her life and let her light shine.