Marilyn I. Broderick

Marilyn I. Broderick (Paulicelli) passed away peacefully on March 18, 2026, in Fort Myers, FL. Born on January 19, 1938, in Boston, Marilyn's life was a testament to the power of prayer, warmth, education, and family.

The daughter of the late Cosimo and Marion (Capuano) Paulicelli, Marilyn was the embodiment of her parents' loving and nurturing spirits. She was a cherished sister to Kathleen Engeian and her husband Paul, Judy Cantalupo and her late husband Dave, Alfred Paulicelli and his wife Carol, and was predeceased by her brother Michael Paulicelli and his wife Julie. Marilyn's life was shared with her beloved late husbands, Edward J. Broderick and William Powell, who both predeceased her, leaving behind a legacy of enduring love. In her later years, she cherished the special bond and friendship she shared with her companion George Collins.

Marilyn's devotion to family was the cornerstone of her existence. She was the proud mother of Karen Broderick Grabhorn and her husband Lewis, Edward J. Broderick Jr., and his late wife Debra, and Dianne Sullivan and her husband Larry. Her role as a grandmother was one she cherished deeply, doting on her grandchildren Lisa, Justin, Keegan, Derek, Jenna, Kevin, and David. Her great-grandchildren Evelyn, Owen, Benjamin, Eliza, Jackson, and Hailey brought her immeasurable joy.

In her empty nest years after raising three children, a lifelong learner and educator, Marilyn achieved a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from UMASS Boston and continued to be a teacher and a role model to children with special needs in Milton.

Marilyn's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly she and her parents and sister Judy organized, planned and devoted  the earlier years at Cafe Marion in Faneuil Hall Quincy Market. The family business was a beloved establishment where all the food was lovingly made from scratch, a testament to her passion for cooking and bringing people together. Their restaurant brought the local community together through food and service that lasted for over 40 years.  

An active parishioner of St. Mary of the Hills, and taught CCD for over a decade. Marilyn's faith was an integral part of her life. She found joy in her interests, which included a love for reading and golf. Her time spent in the Florida sun was cherished, as was every moment spent with her family, who were the center of her world. She found great spiritual comfort through her monthly donations to St. Jude Children’s Fund and My Brother’s Keeper.

Those who knew Marilyn will remember her as the embodiment of love, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Her presence could light up a room, and her gentle guidance was a source of comfort to many. Marilyn's legacy is one of unwavering care and devotion to her family, her students, and her community.

As we bid farewell to Marilyn I. Broderick, we celebrate a life that was truly well-lived. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as her presence enriched every life she touched. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with immense love and gratitude.

Visiting hours will be held at the Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home 326 Granite Ave Milton on Tuesday March 24 from 4:00 to 7:00pm.  A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday March 25 at St. Mary of the Hills Church Milton  at 11:30am  Burial to follow at Milton Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Marilyn’s memory to My Brother’s Keeper.

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