Jeanne C. Dalton

Jeanne C. Dalton, 94, a longtime resident of Lynnfield, passed away on Monday, August 26, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 21, 1930, in North Bergen, New Jersey, Jeanne was the daughter of the late Michael and Madeline (Dillon) Gallagher. She spent her early childhood in Connecticut before relocating to Malden, where she graduated from Malden High School.

Jeanne was the beloved wife of the late James A. Dalton and devoted mother to seven children: Jimmy, Patti, Eddie, Danny, Bobby, Tommy, and Billy. Married in 1955, Jeanne and Jim first settled on Edward Ave in Lynnfield before moving to Oxbow Road. 

“15 Oxbow” quickly became the lively center of the neighborhood. Jeanne not only managed a bustling household but also actively supported various school sports and events and worked as a secretary. She always welcomed her children’s friends with open arms, offering them a place at the dinner table – or a bed – whatever was needed. Through the years Jeanne organized and hosted the family’s holiday celebrations, with 15 Oxbow at the heart of every festive gathering.

Jeanne had a deep love for music, always humming a tune and keeping music playing throughout the house. She also loved to travel, she and Jim enjoyed many vacations in Aruba with friends and memorable trips to Rome, Portugal, Bermuda, and Alaska.

In her later years Jeanne continued to stay active, working at Sagamore Golf course, spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, enjoying Killington and Mousam Lake and attending plays and concerts.

Jeanne is predeceased by her beloved husband, James A. Dalton and survived by her children James A. Dalton, Jr. (Margaret) of Port St. Lucie, FL, Patricia Dalton of Reading, MA, Edward Dalton (Lori) of Manchester, NH, Daniel Dalton (Sandra) of Newbury, MA, Robert Dalton (Kerri) of Amesbury, MA, Thomas Dalton (Danielle) of Hudson, MA, William Dalton (Stefanie) of Topsfield, MA. She is predeceased by her sister Elaine Collins (John) of Wakefield, MA and survived by her brother Michael Gallagher (Judith) of Quincy, MA. 

Jeanne was “Nana” to many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Meghan (Mark), Hailey (Brianna), Codey (Yessi), Shane (Keelin), Jenna (Luke), Rylee, Robby, Danny, Alyssa, Taylor (Nathan), Jared, Alec, Justin, Jocelyn, Jolie, and great -grandchildren, Aubree, Harrison, and Griffin. And “Aunt Jeanne” to many nieces and nephews.

Jeanne’s funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Maria Goretti Church, 112 Chestnut St., Lynnfield, MA on Friday Aug. 30 at 10 a.m. followed by interment at Forest Glade Cemetery, Wakefield, MA.

Visitation for relatives and friends will be held at the McDonald Funeral Home, 19 Yale Ave., Wakefield, MA, on Thursday Aug. 29 from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity.