Stephen Anthony Gillen

Stephen Anthony Gillen, born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 15, 1938, peacefully departed this world on October 11, 2023. He was the beloved husband of Kathleen Gillen and the devoted son of the late James Gillen and Jane Gillen.

Stephen's journey through life was marked by numerous accomplishments and a deep commitment to both his family and various philanthropic causes. He was a graduate of Hempstead High School and went on to attend St. John’s University on a track scholarship, demonstrating his early passion for athletics and education.

His dedication to service extended to the United States Navy, where he served as a Lieutenant from 1960 to 1964 in Newfoundland. Following his military service, Stephen embarked on a lifelong career as an accounting controller at UPS, where his professional expertise shone.

Upon his well-earned retirement, Stephen turned his attention to the causes closest to his heart. He became a volunteer host family for Healing the Children in New Jersey, offering a warm and welcoming home to those in need. Additionally, he took on the role of a founding trustee for Medical Missions for Children, embodying his dedication to the betterment of others through healthcare initiatives and telemedicine.

Music was another of Stephen's lifelong passions, and he served as the treasurer of the Adamant Music School in Vermont, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing artistic talent and education. His meticulous attention to detail helped hone his skills in his every pursuit helping Steve achieve the remarkable milestone of bowling the perfect score in his bowling league. He was also an accomplished golfer, achieving the rare feat of a hole-in-one.

However, above all his remarkable achievements and commitments, Stephen's family was the cornerstone of his life. He shared 46 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kathleen. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his loving daughters Tara J. Howie of Middletown, NJ, and Heather Gagnon of East Matunuck, RI, as well as his three sons, Stephen A. Gillen and Jesse M. Gillen of Kinnelon, NJ, and Luis M. Gillen of Waterbury, CT. He is also survived by his brother, Jay Gillen of Colorado Springs, CO, and leaves behind five cherished grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A visitation hour will be held on October 17th at 12:00 PM at Our Lady of the Magnificat, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 PM. Stephen's final resting place will be at Our Lady of the Magnificat Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Adamant Music School (https://www.adamant.org), allowing Stephen's legacy to continue through the support of music education.