Evelyn Gillen

1 September 194123 July 2024

On Tuesday 23 July 2024, our extraordinary, beautiful Mum Evelyn Gillen passed peacefully at Middlemore Hospital surrounded by all of her children Tom, Cath, Damien and Dominic. She was the most courageous, brave and strong woman we had the privilege to have as a Mother. Her love for her family, Our Lord Jesus and his Holy Mother Mary were her passions in life. She devoted so much of her life to raising her family and working for Our Lady through the Legion of Mary. Evelyn was a wonderful, loving grandmother to Jacob, Lilliana, Elsie, Ezra, Lara and Emily. Supportive Aunty to Kevin and Sue. Mum will be incredibly missed by all who loved her and knew her and leave a huge hole in our close-knit family. Thank you to all who offered prayers and Masses throughout her illness. In lieu of flowers, can you please offer up a Mass for the holy souls - this is what Mum would have wished for. Requiem Mass for her will be celebrated at St Mark Catholic Church, 334 Pakuranga Road, Pakuranga on Wednesday 31st July at 11.00 am.

Tributes

My beautiful, warm, funny Ma! How the days have past since you left us to be with Jesus, his Holy Mary and our witty, bright, strong Dad, John - they seem to have swept by in a flash. I have wept many tears since you've gone. My heart will never be the same. You were my treasured Ma, my best friend, my guiding light, spiritual guide, advisor & confidant. The house has a beautiful fragrance with all the lovely flowers left for you. Our home has had many tears and laughs from all those who have dropped in but this house will never be the same without you. I snuggle your pink fluffy jacket as it smells of you and I don't want that smell to go away. I will try and do you proud for the years ahead especially with my faith. I hope & pray that if I can be even 1/2 of the woman you were - I will be very proud. You were indeed a lighthouse showing many lost souls the way through your love and inspirational dedication to our Holy Mother Mary. There were many a tribute to you at the Rosary evening and again at your funeral Mass. You were loved beyond measure. This beautiful poem just for us: "Its a special bond that spends the years through laughter, worry, smiles and tears. A sense of trust that can't be broken, a depth of love sometimes unspoken, a lifelong friendship built on sharing hugs, kisses, warmth. A caring mother & daughter their hearts as one, a length that can never be undone" <3 I love you, I love you, I love you. Rest in happiness my beautiful Ma xxx forever in your heart. Love Cat

Catherine Gillen
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