Dolores Ann Callaghan

Dolores Ann Callaghan (neé Malloy) was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother during her incredible 89 years of life. She passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

Her son, Robert Callaghan (m. Usha Maharaj), predeceased her less than a year ago. She is survived by husband Jack; children Ann Warcholak (m. Daniel Warcholak), John Callaghan (m. Roxana Gonzales), Carol Callaghan-Evans (m. Robert Evans), and Christine LaPetina (m. Leonard LaPetina); grandchildren Kathryn Warcholak (m. Kyle Raab), Daniel Warcholak (m. Vitoria Barreto), Natasha Switzer (m. Thomas Switzer), Seth Callaghan, Leonard LaPetina, Patrick Evans, Sophia LaPetina, Sean Evans, and Evelyn LaPetina; and great-granddaughter Zöe Warcholak.

Dolores was born on January 5th, 1935 in New York, NY and raised in the “City.” She considered herself a life-long New Yorker who was simply living temporarily in Virginia for the last 55 years. She was a fabulous dancer and loved “going to the movies.” We loved to watch her and my father dance the Lindy together and to hear her stories of the old-time movie palaces of New York City where, as a child, she could spend a whole day for a dime.

Dolores and Jack were married for 64 years. Dad has always said that it was “love at first sight” from the moment he saw her walk down the stairs. Together, they raised a large Catholic family who Mom always said was her “greatest joy and accomplishment.” She taught us to love, to pray, and to “do the right thing” no matter how hard.

We all agree that the best words to describe Mom are “kind, generous and compassionate.” Dolores was unselfish to a fault. She embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love and an unending generosity that could be seen in her care for her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchild and to her entire family and countless others.

We couldn’t spend a minute with her without her telling us how much she loved us, how beautiful she thought we were, and how proud she was to be our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. We took care of her, and she took care of us with adoring words and ready hugs. There is no better feeling than being around someone that loves you unconditionally. No judgment, no stress, just warmth and love.

Dolores is irreplaceable in our lives and will be desperately missed.

On Monday, January 22, 2024, a wake will be held for Dolores’ friends and family at the Money & King Funeral Home in Vienna, VA. On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, a funeral mass will be held at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church in Chantilly, Va.