Reilly, Ellen J.

By Canton Citizen

Ellen “Ellie” J. Reilly (Collins), 83, of Canton, passed away on August 31, 2026, surrounded by her three loving children.

Ellie was born on July 30, 1943, in Mission Hill as the daughter of John and Josephine “Josie” Collins where she was proudly raised alongside her three sisters and extended family. She was the beloved wife of Mike Reilly of Canton, loving mother of Michael Reilly of Canton, Erin Doyle and her husband, Tom, of Canton, and Brian Reilly of North Weymouth. She was the devoted grandmother of Sean and Shannon Doyle, who she referred to as the “lights of [her] life.” She was the sister of Maureen “Mary” Cieri of Roslindale, Elizabeth “Betty” Luna of Roslindale, and the late Patricia “Patsy” Sheehan, together known by all as the Four Queens.

After graduating from Mission High School and while working in medical records at Brigham & Women’s hospital, she met and married her husband, Mike, and began their family in Dorchester before settling in Canton in 1978. There, she remained a cherished and familiar presence in the community for many years. Throughout her life, she was known for her warm and easygoing spirit, her steady care for others, and the deep love she held for the people closest to her.

After raising her children, Ellie worked as a private home health aide, a role that reflected her natural compassion and her lifelong commitment to helping others. She approached her work with patience, dignity, and a gentle manner that brought comfort to those in her care. Her kindness extended well beyond her occupation, as she was always ready with a listening ear, a reassuring word, or a helping hand whenever it was needed.

Ellie was also a devoted and active parishioner for many years at St. Gerard Majella, where her faith was an important part of her life. She shared her beliefs through service and example, and taught CCD with the same care and sincerity that guided so much of what she did. She was heavily involved in her children’s passions, attending each game, recital and school event.

She enjoyed simple pleasures that brought her joy throughout the years: Family celebrations and Irish dances with her mom, sisters, aunts and uncles, cousins, and nieces and nephews. She loved reading, going to the beach with a good book and a coffee, and walking at Castle Island — quietly with herself or her expansive group of friends & family.

Above all, she treasured time with her grandchildren, Sean and Shannon, who brought great pride and delight to her life. Her love for them was evident in the way she spoke of them and in the many memories they shared together.

Her family was the center of her world, and she will be remembered with deep affection for the love and strength she gave so freely to those around her.

Ellen’s life was one of faith, family, and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion and grace that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Thursday (today) from 4-8 p.m. at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home, 455 Washington Street. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 4, at 10 a.m. in Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Mission Church), 1545 Tremont Street in Boston. Burial at Canton Corner Cemetery.

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