I can't say that I have one specific memory to speak about, but rather the accumulation of many happy visits with her as a young child.  Whenever my parents and I would visit with Uncle Ron and Aunt Anna Marie, I would look forward to mostly hanging out and playing with Dan.  We were closer in age and got on well (Those who know about the adventures of Pete and Joe understand).  But I loved those visits because I felt comfortable there.  Uncle Ron and my Father were cut from the same cloth in obvious ways since they were brothers.  Aunt Anna Marie and my Mother however we married in, but seemed so much closer in personality, probably from their Italian heritage.  Seeing them all together reminded me of home in a way.  I always enjoyed her loving welcomes and hugs, making me feel like one of her own.  Her stories and laughter were infectious.  Seeing the interaction between her and her boys was always good for quick entertainment, especially the Mother/Son banter (something I am have a fair amount of practice in my self).  I will never forget how sweet she was to me.  I last spoke with her perhaps a year ago, and loved her outlook and happiness on life.  I can still hear her voice. She was one of a kind and is sorely missed.  

My deepest condolences and love to Cousins, Jim, Ron and Dan!    

As the "Mom to many boys," she'll always be remembered. While in her home, far from my own, I counted myself as one of those fortunate boys, to benefit from her caring and generosity. Mrs. Q dutifully took on the role, whether we asked for it or not, and we were (at least, I was) mostly clueless to know how meaningful that was at the time. Both Mrs. and Mr. Q would playfully judge our poor choices in activity, our schemes, clothing, hairstyles, and music, but they ultimately would see us for the character we possessed as individuals and encourage us. That's old school parenting right there... Mrs. Q lives on in the Quigley family boys! Much love!!

Wow. I hadn’t had a chance to check in to see what people had posted until this morning and it is so great to read these incredible memories that people we love have shared about my Mom.

I am finding out in real time that no matter how prepared one thinks they are, or how well one has dealt with death before, losing one’s Mother is different.
In my case, having been the point person for both of my parents during their late life health struggles, I assumed that having given so much of my time to their cause that it would lead to a zen like result when they passed. In my Dad’s case, that was true. Although I missed him (and still do) I was calm throughout. Using that template I was confidant I would be equally prepared with my Mom.
The problem is I am not.

My Mom was like my sidekick. We hung out a lot. She played an active role in spending time with our son Max and we made a point to get her involved as they both loved being together. So, wether it was shopping at the supermarket, grabbing lunch or a coffee, going on excursions or hitting Greenwich Ave, she was by my side.

She loved being with Max and he was always happy to be with Grandma as she was always a willing participant in his goofing around. Last year the two of them began watching Mets baseball games together. I think the Mets won the first few they saw together so Grandma became Max’ good luck charm. They would heckle players, Grandma would complain about the crazy beards and hairdo’s some of the guys sported which always sent Max into a frenzy of laughter.

Mom was always willing to spend time with Max, even when she was going through her chemotherapy and Max was always a hit when we accompanied Grandma to her sessions. He kept her happy and was the best “medicine”.

It would take too much time for me to recount all of the stories that are swirling through my head, so I just want to say thank you to everyone who has sent in a memory. Here is a photo we thought w b cool to share.

Dan

Wow. I hadn’t had a chance to check in to see what people had posted until this morning and it is so great to read these incredible memories that people we love have shared about my Mom.

I am finding out in real time that no matter how prepared one thinks they are, or how well one has dealt with death before, losing one’s Mother is different.
In my case, having been the point person for both of my parents during their late life health struggles, I assumed that having given so much of my time to their cause that it would lead to a zen like result when they passed. In my Dad’s case, that was true. Although I missed him (and still do) I was calm throughout. Using that template I was confidant I would be equally prepared with my Mom.
The problem is I am not.

My Mom was like my sidekick. We hung out a lot. She played an active role in spending time with our son Max and we made a point to get her involved as they both loved being together. So, wether it was shopping at the supermarket, grabbing lunch or a coffee, going on excursions or hitting Greenwich Ave, she was by my side.

She loved being with Max and he was always happy to be with Grandma as she was always a willing participant in his goofing around. Last year the two of them began watching Mets baseball games together. I think the Mets won the first few they saw together so Grandma became Max’ good luck charm. They would heckle players, Grandma would complain about the crazy beards and hairdo’s some of the guys sported which always sent Max into a frenzy of laughter.

Mom was always willing to spend time with Max, even when she was going through her chemotherapy and Max was always a hit when we accompanied Grandma to her sessions. He kept her happy and was the best “medicine”.

It would take too much time for me to recount all of the stories that are swirling through my head, so I just want to say thank you to everyone who has sent in a memory. Here are a few photos we thought w b cool to share.



Two things really pop out in my mind when I think of Anna Marie.

That laugh. That incredible, contagious laugh. When Anna Marie was having a good time and laughing, you absolutely could not help but laugh right along with her. Even now, through the tears, I can hear her laugh in it my head and it makes me smile.

When I was a kid, I remember being over at Ron & Anna Marie's house for dinner. Anna Marie made her polenta, among other things. That was the first time I ever had polenta, and I absolutely loved it. I'm partial to Italian food to begin with, but this was something really special to me. Over many years since then, I've usually taken advantage of any opportunity to order polenta when I had a chance. But it's never been the same. We've tried making it at home too, but again, just not the same. Maybe 35 years have passed since that first taste, and it still sticks in my mind as something special that has never been equaled. 

-- Having suddenly lost other people close to me in recent years, I learned a lesson - take the time today to tell people close to you that you love them and appreciate them --

A few years ago, I was passing through town on work.  Dan helped me find my way to Stamford to visit with Anna Marie.  We had a really nice visit, we shared stories about caring for people who needed a lot of help - Anna Marie with Uncle Ron, and me (and my wife), with our son - and really bonded over the shared experiences. While I was there, I made sure to take a minute to relay my story about her polenta, complimenting her that it was one of the best things I ever ate, and I've never had anything quite like it again.   

It might seem trite to compliment Anna Marie on her cooking from so many years ago, but to me, it was a warm, and important memory and I wanted her to know that.  I'm glad I was able to share that with her, to let her know that it stuck with me all these years, especially since it relates to two important themes in her life - family and food.

I can honestly say that  my favorite memory was watching Aunt Anna Marie make coffee in her kitchen. It would take her at least a half hour to get the pot on the stove and everyone would ask when the coffee would be ready, but in her mind, there was no rush, and she didn't let anyones comments make her move any faster. She was a strong person and didn't have a problem speaking her mind.

It was always a pleasure to listen as she told stories and shared memories while we drank coffee. She had the BEST laugh and always made you feel welcome.  

I am so happy I was able to spend an afternoon with her last June and see her one more time. I spoke with her after I returned to California and each time she easily put a smile on my face.

The photo below is from 2013 after a Quigley Family Reunion in Cape Cod. Uncle Ronny and Aunt Anna Marie couldn't make it so we drove to Ct. to spend the day and it was SO worth the long trip. 

I'll miss you Aunt RiRi!

Love 
Cindy

So hard to believe that I wouldn't be able to talk to you again. 
So many good memories. The one that still makes me smile, is when we took a family trip to Canada.. I remember when you were cooking in the camper, and spilled it on your pants, the next thing I remember was you pulling off your pants,  I was too young to understand,  but remember your contagious laugh.  
RIP my Godmother and Aunt, you will be missed,  and give my Dad and the rest of the family,  a big hug from me.. 
Until we meet again.
Love and sincere condolences to my cousins. 
JoAnne 

Mrs Quigley was the best and sweetest mom on this earth. Her capacity for warmth, love and joy were limitless.  I met her as a very young woman who was raised by her dad, never knowing the warmth of a mom. She taught me to cook, iron and even accompanied me to Lord and Taylor to purchase my first proper wool winter coat. A lovely berry color. I will never forget her beautiful giggles and laughs. Always happy and excited about whatever was going on.  Her boys were her everything and she loved cooking and taking care of them like nothing else. What a cook!! I will never ever forget this beautiful, sweet soul who showed me a mother’s love.  You will be missed so much dear, sweet Mrs Quigley.  Sending my condolences to the entire Quigley and Tortora families.  

There are so many fun memories... like the impromptu sleep over when we went for Sunday dinner and had no gas to get home (gas stations were actually closed on Sundays!)
Or the dance parties in the living room when you added 4 extra kids to your household one summer while mom and dad went to Europe! Enjoy your family reunion and hug my dad. Love and prayers to my cousins. So sorry for your loss. Debi and Bart. 

Aunt Anna Marie was more than my aunt - she was a confidant, friend, and my surrogate mom. Her love came without judgement and her advice I always held dear. Heaven has a bit more sparkle now that she has arrived. Nanny, Pop, her brothers, husband and nephew must have all embraced her home. Amen.

Mrs. Q. What can I say? You weren't mom to just three incredible guys (Jimmy, Ronny and Dan) , you were also "mom" to all of their friends. Making us lunch while we played football or played tennis in the back as young kids or coming over for breakfast to nurse hangovers as, well... teenagers.
You and Mr. Q set the gold standard as examples of loving stability as we were growing up and we're all better because of it.
Deepest condolences to all of the Quigley family from the Bianco's. 
Much love always,
Anthony

My Aunt was the sweetest person I have ever known . She always made you feel welcome and always had a great spread at her home. While our families were growing up our parents made sure the tradition of getting together was a priority and we all  had lots of fun.  whether it was Christmas Eve at our house or  , summer cook outs at uncle Pete’s and those  Sunday Dinners and our Aunt Anna Marie And Uncle Ron . Whatever it was we always had a blast. As we all get older and as our parents leave us there are many great memories to cherish and keep in our hearts. I had so much fun sharing these with my children and look forward to telling my Grand Kids about those times and hope that all the kids will follow the tradition our parents created.  God Bless Aunt Anna Marie’s please say hello to my Dad and my Brother.  Mondo 

RIP Mrs. Quigley! Mrs. Quigley you have the patience of a Saint, and I have so many great memories of playing and growing up in your home, there are too many to write... we miss you terribly! Please pray for us Saint Anna Marie!! Love Danny and the Walsh family. 

We shared so many laughs! People who knew you always tell me that I’m so much like you ... I guess we were both a little thick headed.. But I will always cherish the fun times… And there were many. Rest in peace  aunt And please kiss Dad for me

OBITUARY

Anna Marie Quigley

March 12, 1934 – March 1, 2020

Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home

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