Kathleen "Kathy" Callen Obituary (1956

Kathleen (Brennan) Callen, lovingly known as Kathy to her family and friends. Passed away peacefully on April 30, 2024, in the comfort of her home with her family by her side. Born on August 24, 1956, to the late Joseph F. and Isabella G. (nee: French) Brennan. Kathy was a lifelong resident of South Philadelphia and a graduate of St. Maria Goretti, class of 74. Kathy spent most of her career at United Parcel Service.Kathy was hard-working and tireless. A ball of energy, she seldom stopped moving. Her idea of relaxing included regularly working two jobs (and then picking up a side job in retirement), cooking, taking care of grandkids, picking out perfect gifts from QVC, running errands, and drafting her husband John into various projects. As a single mom, she put her three children through private high school and college and was proud of the success they achieved. Her baking skills were legendary. In particular, her chocolate chip cake and pumpkin roll, often imitated but never duplicated, were universally acknowledged as delicious, and were a staple at birthdays, showers and neighborhood parties. She loved music, and the sound of Motown and Oldies could regularly be heard throughout her home. Kathy was very social and had many friends and people who loved her. Among these were her "Sorority Sisters," a group of women she had known since grade school. They partied frequently, took trips together and got into many (mis)adventures that are not fit for print, here or anywhere. In 2007, she married the love of her life and former high school sweetheart, John Callen. Together, they enjoyed being doting grandparents and spending time down the shore for many years - but also too few. They deeply loved their grandchildren, who they spoiled like crazy. Kathy was entirely selfless and always put others before her. She never wanted to make a fuss or trouble anyone, including during her illness. Her children feel lucky to have had her as a mother, and the love and care she put into the world was immeasurable. She will be greatly missed.Beloved wife of John L. Callen. Devoted mother to Jason (Selena) Mulgrew, Dennis (Margo) Mulgrew and Megan Mulgrew. Proud Mom-Mom of Liam, Patrick, Elise, Quinn and Mack and her faithful grand-dogs, Lily and Louie. Former wife of Dennis Mulgrew, Sr. Sister of Anne (Ed) Varnis, Maureen (John) Dawson, William (Catherine) Brennan and the late Michael (Bernice) Brennan and late Joseph F. Brennan Jr. She will be missed by her dear Sorority Sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends. Relatives and friends are invited to gather Wednesday morning from 8-10:40am at the Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, 3rd & Wolf Sts. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11am at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and burial will be private. Donations may be made to charity of choice. Cemetery Burial will be private PAUS Gathering Wednesday, May 8, 2024 8:00 AM - 10:40 AM Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home, PC. 2237-41 South Third St. Philadelphia PA 19148 US (215) 334-1578 Funeral Mass Wednesday, May 8, 2024 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church 2317 S. 3rd St. Phila PA 19148 US Funeral Home Murphy Ruffenach Brian W. Donnelly Funeral Home 2239 S 3rd St Philadelphia PA - 19148 US 215-334-1578