A devoted mother whose love, warmth and sense of humor will be missed
MELROSE — Norma A. (Gillis) Riley, longtime resident of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 1, 2022 at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital.
Born in Revere, Norma is one of five children of the late John and Mildred (Houston) Gillis. She grew up in Malden and graduated from Cheverus High School in 1960.
As a young girl, she enjoyed spending time with her friends. She also loved babysitting, spending summertime in Ipswich, and going to Fenway Park to watch a Sox game.
Norma worked as a waitress at the Stranway in Malden, where she met “Big Lou.” They were married on March 14, 1969 and eventually settled in Melrose to raise their family.
More than anything else, Norma loved being a mother. She adored her family and was a true advocate for her children and grandchildren. Her two youngest daughters had health issues, and she took wonderful care of them throughout their lives. An excellent listener, she could be counted on to talk about any trouble, and always gave the best advice.
While being a mother was job number one, she also worked as a secretary for Maplewood, and then the Forestdale School in Malden. She made numerous friends in her 31 years and missed it terribly after retiring.
Norma enjoyed entertaining at her home. She was at her happiest when her home was full of people, food, love and excitement.
Outside of family, Norma enjoyed playing bingo, visiting Prince Edward Island, an occasional trip to the casino, and staying in contact with her childhood friends. Norma’s love, warmth, and sense of humor will be missed by all who were blessed to have her in their life.
Norma was the beloved wife of the late Lewis H. Riley with whom she shared nearly 41 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Molly Whisler and her husband, Phillip; Bridget Braverman and her husband, Shane, both of Melrose; and the late Shannon and Katie Riley. Caring sister of Elaine Piselli and her late husband, Edmund; Richard Gillis and his wife, Diane; Joan Kravit and her late husband, Harold; and the late James Gillis. Cherished grandmother of Emma, Jacob, Madeleine, and Kathleen. Also survived by numerous loving nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends gathered to honor Norma’s life for her funeral Mass celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 6 at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.
To view a live stream of the funeral Mass, please click on https://my.gather.app/remember/norma-riley.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Special Olympics Massachusetts, 512 Forest St., Marlborough, MA 01752.
To leave a message of love and support for the family, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
