Catherine (Kate) M. Kelleher

Westfield, NJ (formerly of Rahway) — Catherine M. "Kate" Kelleher, age 77, passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.

Born on December 27, 1947, in Elizabeth, NJ, to the late Catherine and William Kelleher, Kate spent her childhood in Elizabeth, where she was a proud alumna of St. Catherine's Grammar School and St. Patrick's High School, graduating with the Class of 1965.

Kate enjoyed a fulfilling career working for PanAm Airlines in New Youk City, which allowed her to travel extensively around the world. Some of her favorite destinations included Hawaii, Japan, and Las Vegas, where she enjoyed playing poker and trying her luck at the slots.

A passionate bowler, Kate participated in numerous leagues over the years, and loved the camaraderie of the game. She was also an avid reader, with a particular fondness for suspense novels. A lover of all games, Kate could always be found ready to take on family members in trivia or board games. She especially cherished the moments spent with her family during holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions.

In addition to her love for travel and games, Kate cherished the peaceful retreats she took with friends and family, particularly to Esopus in upstate New York, which held a special place in her heart.

For many years, Kate and her late mother enjoyed breeding canaries and parakeets, often finding loving homes for their feathered friends.

Kate was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Joseph. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Jacqueline, nieces Maureen (Chris) and Patty (Patrick), and her great-nephew, Ethan.

A Memorial Gathering will be held in the Leonard-Lee Funeral Home, 301 E. Blancke Street, Linden on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 10 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. at which time a Memorial Service will be held. Interment of ashes will follow in St. Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia.