Mary Jane "MJ" McIlveen

Born on April 3, 195 1, in Brooklyn, NY, to William R. and Mary F. McIlveen, MJ moved to Westwood as a young child, where she spent the remainder of her life. An avid reader and dedicated student, she graduated from Hope College in Holland, Michigan, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History.

MJ devoted much of her professional life to education, working for the Internal Revenue Service as an Educational Instructor before retiring to lovingly care for her mother.

She was an active and generous member of her community, volunteering at the Westwood Library, teaching English as a Second Language, and serving in various leadership roles within her church. MJ also enjoyed spending time boating and golfing, pursuing her love of these with enthusiasm and grace.

After a full and meaningful life, MJ joins her beloved parents, William and Mary McIlveen, in heaven. She is survived by many dear relatives who will miss her deeply, especially her cousins Nancy Swensen and Dawn Patterson–whom she thought of as a sister–Dawn’s husband Timothy, and their children Ryan (Laura), Shaun (Kim), Ashleigh, Jesse (Lia), and Skylar Mae, along with grandchildren Charlotte and Emilia. She is also lovingly remembered by her cousin Stephen McIlveen and his wife Arlene, their son Brett (Mary), and their children, Naya and Debon.

MJ will be remembered for her kind heart, unwavering faith, and dedication to her family and community. Her gentle spirit and joyful presence will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive their relatives and friends on Sunday, November 9, at 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood. The funeral service will take place on Monday, November 10, at 10:00 am, at Becker Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at Westwood Cemetery, 23 Kinderkamack Rd, Westwood, NJ, 07675, on November 10, 2025, at 11:30 am.