Marian C. Reilly

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — Marian C. (McCamley) Reilly, 71 years young, died unexpectedly on July 18, 2008, at Cape Cod Hospital, from complications accompanying an acute stroke.

A longtime resident of Lexington, Mass., and East Sandwich, she and her husband, James, have lived in Williamsburg, Va., since September of 2002.

Born in Royal Oak, Mich., on Feb. 6, 1937, Marian was the daughter of John and Marian (Walsh) McCamley. She graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1954 and from St. Joseph's School of Nursing in 1957.

Marian's memory continues in the hearts of her much-loved husband of 45 years, Dr. James P. Reilly; their daughters, Kathleen of Washington, D.C., and Elayne of Columbia, Md.; their son, Michael and his wife, Lois, and three grandchildren, Margaret, Bridget, and Nicholas, of Maynard, Mass. She is also survived by a sister, Elizabeth Smith of Berkley, Mich.; and a brother, Michael McCamley of Las Cruces, N.M. She was preceded in death by a son, Douglas, in 1993.

A true American patriot, Marian was active and served in Lexington town government, social work, public service, and public education. She is instrumental in the official preservation of Cape Cod's historic charm and beauty through her work as the chairwoman of the Cape Cod Historic Districts Commission.

Since 2002, Marian was a courageous activist in civil and women's rights, and vigorously pursued both Massachusetts and national political issues through her lifelong work with the Democratic Party, the National Organization of Women, and the League of Women Voters.

Through it all, Marian nurtured, guided, and supported both family and friends with compassion, humor, and sparkle - the hallmarks of her spirit. She remained a steadfast example, a devoted partner to her husband, and a loyal and understanding companion to those who called her friend.

A celebration of her life will be given for friends and family in New England at a memorial gathering on Saturday, Sept. 27, at the historic Dan'l Webster Inn, Sandwich, from noon to four o'clock in the afternoon. Those who have shared Marian's life and inspiration are encouraged to attend at any time to share their memories, pictures and stories of her, and stay for as long as you like. The family committal service will be Sundayand will be private.

Memorial donations may be made to The Sojourner House, for the Father John Crowley Fund, 85 Rockland St., Roxbury MA, 02128, in memory of her lifelong support and philanthropic work on behalf of the indigent and disadvantaged.

Please visit her guest book at www.ccgfuneralhome.com.