John L. McGilley, of Melrose, died at the Mass. General Hospital on July 14, 2014 at the age of 88. John was born & raised in Melrose and attended Melrose Schools. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII. After returning from the War, John worked as a Supervisor for the Melrose Public Works for many years before his retirement. He was a member of the V.F. W. Harold O' Young Post #2394 in Melrose for many years and was an avid woodworker. John enjoyed playing golf & softball and his family was the most important part of his life. He was the beloved husband of the late Patricia A. (Day) McGilley for 57 years. Loving father of John T. McGilley & his late wife Joan of Melrose and Donald M. McGilley & his wife Erika of NC. Cherished grandfather of Kim, Tonya, Thomas & Sean. Great grandfather of Crystal, Courtney and Richard. Great great grandfather of Richard & Caiden. Uncle of Martha, Janet, Julie, Michelle, Jennifer, Tracy and several great nieces & great nephews. Funeral from the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Saturday, July 18th at 8:45AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in the Church of the Incarnation, 425 Upham St., Melrose at 10AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours on Friday from 4-8PM. Burial in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West 6th Flr., Brookline, MA 02445.