With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jeannette Gallivan, who peacefully departed this world on July 23, 2025, at the age of 97. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, professional dance teacher, business professional, and a close friend to many. Her love, unwavering kindness, and steadfast integrity profoundly touched the lives of those around her every day.
Born in Newton, Massachusetts, Jeannette’s life was filled with the joy of raising two boys, the support of a loving husband, and the fulfillment of two meaningful careers: one as a talented and widely respected ballet instructor, and later, as a successful retail manager.
Jeannette was the beloved wife of Robert Gallivan for over 50 years, a cherished mother to Bradford and Gary, and a devoted grandmother to Connor and Nicholas, sons of Bradford Gallivan. She is also survived by her daughters-in-law, Michelle Gallivan and Katie Gallivan, spouses of Bradford and Gary, respectively. Jeannette was preceded in death by her husband Robert Gallivan, her mother Blanch (Blades) Buell, and her father, Edmond Buell.
Jeannette’s lifelong passion was the study of Russian ballet traditions, particularly the Bolshoi and Legat repertoires. Her deep knowledge of these classical methods led her to become a professional instructor, teaching students who shared her devotion to the art form. In 1963, she founded the Southborough School of Ballet, which she successfully operated for over 20 years. Jeannette’s reputation as a classical ballet teacher became well known throughout the eastern Massachusetts dance community, fostering lifelong relationships with members of the Boston Ballet and other prestigious dance companies in Eastern Europe.
Though she was presented with the opportunity to travel abroad to further her studies, Jeannette chose to prioritize her family and the upbringing of her sons. With characteristic selflessness, she passed up these chances to advance her career—always placing family first.
Later in life, Jeannette embraced a completely new path in retail management. At the age of 65, she accepted a managerial position at the specialty store in one of Sheraton’s flagship hotels in the MetroWest region of Massachusetts. This role required her to learn new skills in retail accounting, inventory management, and complex computing—areas in which she had no previous experience. True to form, she mastered the role and successfully managed the operation for over a decade.
Jeannette will always be remembered for her grace, sincere kindness, and thoughtful friendship. She was a loving wife and mother whose warmth and compassion were boundless. At the same time, she was a self-motivated, determined professional who never failed to achieve what she set out to do.
A private burial ceremony for immediate family will be held later this summer. The family warmly welcomes any personal reflections or anecdotes you would like to share about your relationship with Jeannette. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in her memory.
(Photo and Obituary via Morris-Johnston Funeral Home)
