Susan McGilvery

January 25, 1978 - November 19, 2025

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Obituary for Susan McGilvery

Susan McGilvery, 47, of Quincy was a force for good.

Susan was the loving daughter of Jane Howe McGilvery and her "best buddy," the late Edward (Ted) McGilvery of East Sandwich, MA. (formerly Milton, MA.) She was the proud big sister to Brian (Emily) of Milton, MA., Mark (Liza) of Charleston, SC and Keith of Hartford, CT. Susan was the adoring "Auntie Sue-Sue" to Teddy, Eloise, Ward, George and Eden.

Susan was the cherished granddaughter of the late Bud and Verna Howe of Quincy and the late Edward and Kathleen McGilvery of Milton. She was a family favorite to many incredible aunts, uncles and cousins.

Susan was a proud graduate of Milton High School who went on to enjoy a successful career in customer service at Home Depot in Quincy. She was loved by her customers, celebrated by her coworkers and feared by the shoplifters she could spot from aisles away.

Susan was born with challenges that often made life difficult. She persevered with grit, grace, humor, and ingenuity. However, it was her abilities that made her one-of-a-kind. Susan did not drive but could get you just about anywhere with her eyes closed, she could direct you to thousands of items across Home Depot with ease, was a one-woman neighborhood watch, and could sweet talk anyone into an iced coffee.

Susan fought fiercely for her independence and enjoyed her own apartment for much of her life. Susan had a wide circle of family, friends, and neighbors who helped make this possible and for whom she was always grateful.

Empathy was Susan's superpower. She saw the best in people and regularly went out of her way to help her neighbors in need. She advocated for children and adults of all abilities. Susan made our world a better place by just being herself.

Susan died peacefully at home after a lifetime of health challenges.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Agatha Church, 432 Adams Street, Milton, Monday, December 1 at 10:30 AM. Relatives and friends are invited. Visiting hours at Dolan Funeral Home, 460 Granite Avenue, EAST MILTON SQUARE, on Sunday, November 30 from 2:00-5:00 PM. Interment Blue Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers Susan’s family invites you to make a donation to Opportunity Works Connecticut, a nonprofit dedicated to providing enrichment and employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Services

30 Nov

Visiting Hours

02:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Dolan Funeral Homes and Cremation Services - EAST MILTON SQUARE 460 Granite Avenue Milton, MA 02186 Get Directions »
1 Dec

Mass of Christian Burial

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Saint Agatha Church 432 Adams Street Milton, MA 02186 Get Directions »
1 Dec

Burial

12:00 PM

Blue Hill Cemetery 700 West Street Braintree, MA 02184 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

  • December 08, 2025

    Jeanne Bello

    As a babysitter for the McGilvery Clan, I cherished the special moments I had while caring for them. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time. I can't imagine the depth of their loss, and I want them to know that my thoughts are with them.

  • November 28, 2025

    Michael D. Klett

    McGilvery family, I'm so terribly sorry to hear about Susan's passing. I'm thinking of all of you and keeping you in my prayers.

  • November 26, 2025

    joey brewer

    my good friend and fellow home depot worker. we had a ball at returns and i always enjoyed when we worked together. rest peacefully my friend.

  • November 26, 2025

    Shayla Carney

    Worked with Susan for many years at Home Depot, she was always a light and always kept us laughing and enjoying the day. She will be missed by many 🤍

  • November 25, 2025

    Becca Caudle

    I worked with Sue for 5 years. She was the sweetest gem! When I moved back home to Nashville she always made sure to keep me in the loop with work things and was always the first to respond when I asked who wanted to meet up for lunch when I got back in town. Sending her friends and family love and light.

  • November 24, 2025

    Danielle Woodberry

    I was lucky to have you as my friend. I will miss you forever!

  • November 24, 2025

    Jenni Schezer

    Sending my condolences to all. Susan was an absolute pleasure to work with for the past few years. She will be missed. Jenn Schezer.

  • November 24, 2025

    Keith McGilvery

    I will love you forever!!! -Keith