James Albert Gilligan, veteran, retired lineman

James Albert Gilligan was called home to be with his Lord Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, after a valiant 10-month battle with cancer. He was born Nov. 29, 1944, to Myrtle and James, and was predeceased by his brother, Tom. 

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 57 blissful years, Ann (nee Bogosian); his three 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, N.J., until 1954 when he moved with his family to Rumson, N.J. After graduating from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School in 1963, Jim joined the U.S. 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. 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 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 7, at Goshen United Methodist Church, 103 Mulberry St., Milton. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:30 a.m. Per the family’s wishes, casual summer attire is requested for those who plan to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to Goshen United Methodist Church.

Visit Jim’s Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.