Jim Gilligan's Obituary
After a valiant 10-month battle with cancer, Jim was called home to be with his Lord on August 8, 2024. He was born on November 29, 1944, to Myrtle and James, and was predeceased by his brother Tom.
Jim is survived by his loving wife Ann (nee Bogosian) of 57 blissful years, his 3 children: Jennifer Kelly, her husband Dan and their children, Erin and Aidan Kelly; Jimmy Gilligan his wife Rebecca Ollert and their children, Olivia and Evan Gilligan; John Gilligan, his wife Sarah Stassi, and their son Miles Steger; and Jim’s younger sister Elizabeth “Betty Ann” and her partner Brian Karsif.
Jim was born and raised in Bayonne until 1954 when he moved with his family to Rumson, NJ. After graduating from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School in 1963, Jim joined the United States Army and proudly served his country for three years. Upon returning home to the states, Jim began his career as a telephone lineman at NJ Bell (now Verizon) where he remained a dedicated employee for 37 years. Shortly after retiring, he and Ann moved to Milton, DE. Jim will be remembered by many for his ability to make people laugh and feel welcome wherever he went. He will be forever loved, cherished, and missed by his family.
A Celebration of Jim’s Life has been planned for 11am on Saturday, September 7th at Goshen United Methodist Church, located at 103 Mulberry Street in Milton, DE. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:30am. Per the family’s wishes, casual summer attire is requested for those that plan to attend and in lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to Goshen United Methodist Church.
Please sign Jim’s tribute wall at this site.
FLORIST NOTE: PLEASE DELIVER ALL ARRANGEMENTS BY 9:30 AM ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2024, TO GOSHEN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?