Catherine Jean Groelly, lovingly known by many names — Cathy, Mom, Nana, Nanny, and Great Nana — passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025. Born on March 15, 1947, to the late Agnes Glancey and Robert Allison, and lovingly raised by the late Michael and Bessie Glancey, Cathy lived a life filled with love, joy, and unwavering devotion to her family.
On July 11, 1964, Cathy married the love of her life, Joseph John Groelly. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising three wonderful children and later welcoming their spouses into the family: Dawn and Daniel Malloy, Brian and Toni Groelly, and Jason and Tammy Groelly. Cathy was deeply blessed with seven amazing grandchildren, a grandson-in-law, a granddaughter-in-law, and one cherished great-grandson: Abbey and Donald, Daniel and Marie, Justin, Vincent, Joshua, Tianna, Noah, and Weston. Her love for them was immeasurable.
In addition to her family above, Cathy is survived by her brother Michael Glancey and partner Jen, brother Ted Glancey and wife Mary, brother in-law Ernie Groelly and wife Charlotte, brother in-law John Wurtemberg, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother Robert Allison and wife Marion, beloved sister Patricia Glancey-Wurtemberg and her nephew Allen Groelly.
Cathy was the epitome of kindness, serving many roles throughout her life — a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, an adoring grandmother and great-grandmother, a beloved sister, a compassionate nurse, and a treasured best friend.
After many years as a dedicated stay-at-home mother, Cathy answered a lifelong calling to help others. At the age of 34, she pursued a nursing degree, graduating in 1984. She went on to dedicate herself to one of the most selfless and demanding specialties in healthcare, working as a neonatal intensive care registered nurse and eventually earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Cathy’s legacy of compassion, strength, and unconditional love will live on through all those who were privileged to know her.
Viewing to be held Saturday May 3, 2025 at Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, 596 Belgrove Drive, Kearny NJ 07032 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Followed by a Catholic Service at the Chapel in the Mausoleum at Holy Cross Cemetery located at 340 Ridge Road, North Arlington, NJ 07031. All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend and share in remembering her beautiful spirit.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her name to St. Jude at www.stjude.org.
