Walling-Roche, Mary A., Age: 88, Tinton Falls

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Mary A. Walling-Roche, 88, of Tinton Falls, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving children, on Wednesday, December 23. She was born on July 30, 1927 in New York, N.Y., to Mary A. (Trainor) and James L. Gallagher. She lived for many years in West Keansburg, Lincroft and then Rumson.

Mary was a homemaker. She was an enthusiastic member of many organizations, including Christian Women’s Club and an in home Bible Study Group for 30+ years. She was a realtor. She
wrote a column for the American Pigeon Journal for many years and also plays and a novel. At age 60, Mary decided to become an actress. Within a year she had roles in film, video and television commercials.

Mary was best known for her energy, humor and pride in her Irish heritage. Always the life of the party, she loved to sing and dance. All who met her will always remember her enthusiasm for life.

Mary was predeceased by her parents; her siblings, Doris Walling, Betty Bell, Jim Gallagher and Joan Frazee; and her loving husband of 38 years, Charles (Kenny) Walling. She is survived by her children, Nelson Walling and his wife Barbara of Miami, Fla., Gary Walling and his wife Susan of Colts Neck, Patricia Conwell and her husband Tim of Spring Lake Heights and Mary Lu Wason and her husband Andrew of Atlantic Highlands; 11 grandchildren, Kimberlin Fitzgerald, Hans Walling, Shaun Ellis, Mark Ellis, Jessica Brady, Jeff Walling, Chris Walling, Amy Conwell, Phillip Walling, Jordan Wason and Benjamin Wason; five great-grandchildren; her sister, Theresa and her husband Robert Call; her in-laws, Pat Gallagher and Dwight Frazee; her husband, Michael Roche; and many loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation and a prayer service was held on Tuesday, December 29 at the Shore Point Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Hazlet. In respect of the family’s wishes, Mary’s interment will be privately held at Shoreland Memorial Gardens.

For information or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.shorepointfh.com