Jane A. (Hanlon) Keenan's Obituary
Jane A. Keenan (Hanlon) passed away surrounded by friends and family on Monday. She was 82 years old.
She was born in Lawrence, MA on July 9, 1942 the daughter of the late Leo and Mary Hanlon (Garvin). She graduated from Lowell State College (UMASS Lowell) and started a teaching career in the early 1960’s. She was a Physical Education teacher in the Lawrence Public School System for over 30 years. She taught at many schools finishing her career at the South Lawrence East School. An avid swimmer she also spent many summers teaching swimming lessons at Old Town Country Club in Newbury, MA. She also volunteered at the Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Merrick Valley for many years and was the first volunteer of the year at the club. She was also proud of her involvement with the Salisbury Beach Betterment Association serving for many years on the scholarship committee. Jane had the biggest heart, her home was always the place to be, especially in the summer. Her door was open to all who needed a place to stay. She loved living “at the Beach”. Of all the thing she enjoyed there was nothing better than being the Nana to her seven grandchildren; Casey Flanigan, Conor Keenan, Kiley Keenan, Callie Keenan, Brady Keenan, Carrick Keenan and Cooper Keenan.
Jane is survived by her three children; Jay Keenan and his wife Caroline of Westport, CT, Jim Keenan and his wife Kerry of Salem, NH and Cara Flanigan and her husband Paul of Andover, MA as well as her grandchildren listed above. She is also survived by her sister Colleen and her husband Michael of Bracey, VA and many nieces and nephews. Jane was predeceased by her sister Helen RIchards.
The family would like to extend special thanks to friend Steve Wadlin for all the kindness he has shown Jane and the love and support he provided to the family over the last years.
A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday April 12, 2025 at 10:00 AM at the Star of the Sea Church, 18 Beach Road, Salisbury, MA. Burial will follow at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Lawrence, MA. At the request of the family there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers a memorial contribution can be made in Jane’s name to the Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Merrimack Valley, P.O. 5906, Salisbury, MA 01952 which will be used for an annual scholarship in her name to a graduating senior. Arrangements are under the direction of the John Breen Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Jane?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jane?
Share a story where Jane's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jane you’ll never forget.
How did Jane make you smile?
