Dedicated mother loved music and traveling
LYNNFIELD — Jeanne C. Dalton, 94, a longtime resident of Lynnfield, passed away on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024 while surrounded by her loving family.
Born on March 21, 1930 in North Bergen, New Jersey, Jeanne was the daughter of the late Michael and Madeline (Dillon) Gallagher. She spent her early childhood in Connecticut before relocating to Malden, where she graduated from Malden High School.
Jeanne was the beloved wife of the late James A. Dalton and was the devoted mother to seven children: Jimmy, Patti, Eddie, Danny, Bobby, Tommy and Billy. Married in 1955, Jeanne and Jim first settled on Edward Avenue in Lynnfield before moving to Oxbow Road, and “15 Oxbow” quickly became the lively center of the neighborhood.
Jeanne not only managed a bustling household, but also actively supported various school sports and events and worked as a secretary. She always welcomed her children’s friends with open arms, offering them a place at the dinner table – or a bed – whatever was needed. Through the years, Jeanne organized and hosted the family’s holiday celebrations with 15 Oxbow at the heart of every festive gathering.
Jeanne had a deep love for music, always humming a tune and keeping music playing throughout the house. She also loved to travel, and she and Jim enjoyed many vacations in Aruba with friends. They also took many memorable trips to Rome, Portugal, Bermuda and Alaska.
In her later years, Jeanne continued to stay active, working at Sagamore Spring Golf Club, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, enjoying Killington and Mousam Lake and attending plays and concerts.
Jeanne is predeceased by her beloved husband James A. Dalton. She is survived by her children: James A. Dalton Jr. (Margaret) of Port St. Lucie, Florida; Patricia Dalton of Reading; Edward Dalton (Lori) of Manchester, New Hampshire; Daniel Dalton (Sandra) of Newbury; Robert Dalton (Kerri) of Amesbury; Thomas Dalton (Danielle) of Hudson; and William Dalton (Stefanie) of Topsfield. She is predeceased by her sister Elaine Collins (John) of Wakefield and survived by her brother Michael Gallagher (Judith) of Quincy.
Jeanne was “Nana” to many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Meghan (Mark), Hailey (Brianna), Codey (Yessi), Shane (Keelin), Jenna (Luke), Rylee, Robby, Danny, Alyssa, Taylor (Nathan), Jared, Alec, Justin, Jocelyn and Jolie; and great-grandchildren Aubree, Harrison and Griffin; and “Aunt Jeanne” to many nieces and nephews.
Jeanne’s Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Maria Goretti Church, 112 Chestnut St., Lynnfield on Friday, Aug. 30, 2024. Interment took place at Forest Glade Cemetery, Wakefield. The McDonald Funeral Home in Wakefield handled the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, people should consider making a donation to their favorite charity. To sign the guestbook, visit mcdonaldfs.com.
