Elizabeth B. Kilgallen

Elizabeth “Betty” Browne Kilgallen, 91, of Fairfax, Virginia, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2024. Born on April 9, 1933, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Betty was the daughter of Edward and Marie (Schlett) Browne. A graduate of York Catholic High School, she later pursued a nursing degree and graduated at the top of her class, showcasing the dedication and compassion she would bring to her family and community throughout her life. In 1954, Betty married the love of her life, Jack Kilgallen, in York, Pennsylvania. Together, they began a journey shaped by Jack’s Army career, which took them and later their four children to assignments in Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, California, Kansas, Germany and Italy and ultimately, Virginia. Throughout Jack’s service, including his tours in Korea and Vietnam, Betty managed the household with resilience and grace, providing stability and love through all of life’s transitions. Her adventurous spirit and openness to new cultures made her well-suited to the challenges of military life, allowing her to transform each new place into a warm and welcoming home. Over 2,300 hours of volunteer service as a Catholic Eucharist Minister for a local hospital reflected her quiet, abiding faith. Those who knew her remember Betty with gratitude and a smile for her generosity, quick wit, independence, and unwavering commitment to family and friends.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Jack Kilgallen; her parents, Edward and Marie Browne; and her siblings, Patricia (Browne) Forman and Edward A. Browne.

She is survived by her children Kevin (Renée) Kilgallen, Mary Beth (Thomas) Chamberlin, Michael (Michelle) Kilgallen and Daniel Kilgallen. She also leaves behind ten grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews who will continue to honor her memory.

A visitation for Elizabeth will be held Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 3901 Woodburn Rd, Annandale, VA 22003, followed by a mass of christian burial from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donations to one of Betty's favorite charities

Shepherd's House: https://scnova.org/donate-now/

541 Marshall Road, SW,

Vienna, VA. 22180

703.260.9568

Christ House: https://www.ccda.net/need-help/housing/men-s-housing-(christ-house)/

131 S West Street

Alexandria, VA 22314