Irene L. Kennelly

SHIRLEY- Irene L. (Regan) Kennelly, 81, of Shirley passed away on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at the Life Care Center of Merrimack Valley in Billerica. Irene, who was fondly known as "Cookie" was born in Somerville, on April 21, 1944, she the daughter of the late Walter and Irene (O'Reilly) Regan. She was a graduate of Billerica Memorial High School where she met her high school sweetheart, Marty. Prior to her retirement, Cookie worked as a cafeteria manager in the Westford school system. Where she enjoyed many years of great friendships and long lasting memories of many smiling faces. She truly enjoyed being part of the school community! She enjoyed many activities including knitting, walking the beach, yearly trips to Aruba and York Beach, boat trips on the lakes and oceans of New England, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She leaves her husband of 61 years, Martin L. Kennelly, III of Shirley; three daughters, Sharon Kennelly and Colene Glennon, both of North Chelmsford, and Maureen Kennelly of Shirley; three grandchildren, Nicholas Glennon, Alexis Mills, and Thomas Gonsalves III, and her sister-in-law Mary Regan, and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her two brothers, Walter Regan, and Daniel Regan and her sister, Helen Didion. The family would like to welcome visitors to calling hours on Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Rd., Ayer. From 4:00 - 7:00 PM Burial will be held privately in St. Catherine's Cemetery in Westford. In lieu of flowers or as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to: Westford Education Foundation, P.O. Box 535, Westford, MA 01886. You can also make a gift online at https://www.westford.org/wef/memorial-donations-for-cookie-kennelly/