Matilda Gavigan

Matilda Anna Gavigan (née Marelli), 92, of East Haven, CT passed away August 21, 2025 at her home surrounded by loving family. She shared 60 beautiful years with her beloved husband Frederick Paul Gavigan, who she cared for with devotion until his passing in 2015. Born in New Haven on August 1, 1933 to parents Augustine and Louise Marelli, she was raised in Wooster Square alongside her younger brother Augustine, cousins, and extended family whose bonds shaped her love and dedication to family. A graduate of Wilbur Cross High School, Mattie began working for Cott Beverages, launching a career that spanned five decades, only taking time away to raise her three children. Mattie ultimately retired from Echlin in 2000. A woman of quiet strength, she lived her life with kindness, warmth, and generosity. She will be remembered for her sweet spirit, her love of a tidy home, and her Catholic faith. Her legacy lives on in the lessons she passed down - love without condition and care without complaint. Mattie is survived by her children, Cindie (David) Petersen of Branford, Paul (Louise) Gavigan of East Haven, and Robert (Kathleen) Gavigan of Branford. Mattie was instrumental in the upbringing of her eight grandchildren, Kara (Mark), Casey (Christopher), Brianna, Dana (Taylor), Bradley, Sam, Sophia and Michaela, and five great-grandchildren Poppy, Emma, Christopher, Rosemary, and Augustine. Family and friends are invited to calling hours Monday, August 25th from 4-7pm at W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 26th at 10am St. Vincent de Paul Church, East Haven. Burial will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery, West Haven. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, where Mattie was recently recognized for her over 40 years of consistent contributions. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Matilda, please visit our floral store.