Marie M. Lackner, devout Catholic, beloved matriarch
Marie M. Lackner, 94, of Harbeson, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at AccentCare at ChristianaCare in Newark.
Born July 15, 1930, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Marie was the first-generation American daughter of Irish Catholic immigrants, Peter and Margaret Gallagher. From an early age, Marie took immense pride in her Irish heritage and deep devotion to Catholicism, values that guided her throughout her life.
Marie was a trailblazer for women in the workforce, serving as a registered nurse in the emergency room at New York City Hospital during a time when few women had careers outside the home. After moving to New Jersey with her parents, she met and married John M. Lackner, the love of her life. Together, they settled in West Long Branch, N.J., where they raised three children and built a wonderful life filled with love, service, and devotion to family.
Marie was always involved in her community. She volunteered her time to run town fairs, was active in the Girl Scouts of America with her daughters, and was a faithful member of St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church. She was a lifetime member of the Columbiettes with the Knights of Columbus Association, where she devoted herself to helping others discover the love of God. Her passion for music and faith was evident, as she sang in choirs from her high school years and continued singing at her church throughout her life.
Marie also worked for Rickles in Eatontown, N.J., while raising her children, demonstrating her strong work ethic and commitment to her family. After the passing of her beloved husband, John, in 1993, she retired to Harbeson. There, she continued to stay active, attending Mary Mother of Peace Catholic Church in Millsboro and enjoying dinners with the Long Neck Seniors group at the American Legion.
Marie was known for her vibrant, loving, and kind nature. She was often described as "everybody’s mom" and will always be remembered for her warm cookouts and pool parties, especially those held on Fourth of July. She was the matriarch of her family, holding them together and guiding them through life's many challenges with grace and strength.
Marie is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother, Peter J. Gallagher; and her cousin, Nelson Cammock. She is survived by her three children, Tina Thomas (Scott) of Harbeson, Kevin M. Lackner of Asbury Park, N.J., and Peggy Lackner (Wayne) of Eatontown, N.J.; her grandchildren, Sean R. Lackner (Tiffany) of Berlin, Md., and Jack Lackner of Asbury Park, along with his mother June, and her sons Robbie and Brandon; and her great-grandchildren, Libbi, Brady, Maggie and Kacy. Marie is also survived by her beloved dogs, Sheba and Gigi; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish the love and devotion she shared with them.
A life well-lived, Marie will be greatly missed but never forgotten. May she rest in peace, reunited with her loved ones in the eternal embrace of God.
A Celebration of Marie's Life will be announced at a later date.
Visit Marie's Life Memorial Webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
