Mrs. Jaclyn Reilly

Loving Wife, Sister, Aunt, & Great Aunt 

WATERBURY—It is with profound sadness that the family of Jaclyn L. Reilly, age 77, of Waterbury, shares the news of the unexpected passing of their beloved wife, sister, and aunt on Monday, December 9th, 2024, at Saint Mary’s Hospital after a brief illness. She was the devoted wife of Brian Reilly.

Jackie was born on April 4th, 1947, in New Haven, CT, the daughter of the late Jack Leo and Elizabeth (Bartolomeo) Karpel. A proud graduate of Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden, Jackie went on to earn her degree from Quinnipiac University. For over 30 years, she dedicated her professional life as an office manager under Dr. Finn at what is now known as the NOSS Center (Neurosurgery, Orthopedics & Spine Specialists of Waterbury), where her kindness and competence made a lasting impact on patients and colleagues alike. She was an active member of the Elks Lodge 265 and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 66, embodying the essence of community and friendship. Jackie was a true gem, radiating warmth wherever she ventured. As a 24-year cancer survivor, she exemplified resilience and positivity, inspiring others with her story. She was an incredible baker, known for her delightful cakes that brought smiles to the faces of her nieces and nephews on their special days. Jackie had a passion for travel, especially enjoying memorable adventures and cruises with her beloved husband and many joyful trips to Ireland that added to her treasure trove of cherished memories.

Affectionately known to many as Aunt Jackie, she offered guidance and support without reservation. Jackie had an enormous heart, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Jackie adored cats, filling her home with their playful energy, and she and Brian were seasonal subscribers to the Shubert and Bushnell theaters for many years. Jackie Reilly will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for those around her. May she rest in peace, knowing the incredible legacy she leaves behind.

Left to honor her legacy and cherish her memory are her husband of 52 years, Brian as well as her siblings; Philip Karpel of Sarasota, FL, and Karen Sylvia of Branford, CT, as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and many friends. Jackie was predeceased by her brother-in-law, John Reilly and sister-in-law, Barbara Reilly.

Funeral services for Mrs. Reilly will be held on Monday, December 16th, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, Saint Leo the Great Church, 14 Bentwood Rd, Waterbury. Those planning to attend are asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories, laughter, and love in honor of the extraordinary woman Jackie was on Sunday, December 15th, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care 1987 East Main St Waterbury. In lieu of flowers and to honor Jackie’s memory, donations to the Harold Leever Cancer Center, 1075 Chase Parkway Waterbury, CT 06705 would be very much appreciated by her family. Loving-kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence and share a memory or words of comfort with the family and friends of someone who was important to you. Please do that on the funeral home tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com.