Gillian Amy Kahn

Gillian Amy Kahn, age 58, of Allston, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 18, 2023 after a brief illness. Gillian was born on January 18, 1965 in New York, New York to Evelyn Susan Kahn and the late Mark Edward Kahn. She grew up in Shrewsbury, New Jersey but considered Brighton and Allston, Massachusetts her adopted hometowns and lived there most of her adult life. Gilly, as she was called by friends, excelled at virtually everything she tried, from illustrating and gymnastics to modern dance and tennis. Despite her many talents, Gilly maintained uncommon modesty and humility throughout her life. After graduating from Red Bank Regional High School as a stellar student, Gilly received a Bachelor in Fine Arts degree in Visual Arts and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Cornell University. She was known as a generous, warm and compassionate friend, a cheerleader always shining a light on the accomplishments of others. Gilly worked in publishing, spending eighteen years at the Atlantic Monthly Magazine, acting as an assistant to the Art Director, helping to showcase the work of other artists. She subsequently worked for Pearson Publishing and Aptara in Boston, and Johnny D’s in Brighton. She was an active member of the Brighton Lodge of Elks 2199, where she produced the Lodge Bulletin for many years.

Gilly was deeply loved by her family and her vast community of friends. She showed genuine compassion, respect, and kindness towards all who knew her. Gilly’s incredible creativity and humor were matched only by her infectious giggle which she showered on all who made her laugh. Gilly is survived by her partner of sixteen years Phil Marquez, her mother Evelyn Kahn, her sisters Jennifer (Bob) Calamari and Elizabeth (Trip) Meine, and her nephews and nieces Michael, Matthew, and Sarah Calamari, and Brooks and Katie Meine.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Gilly’s favorite causes: Planned Parenthood, the Democratic National Committee, the MSPCA (MSPCA.org), Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARLBoston.org), or gun reform (https://nonprofitpoint.com/ best-gun-control-charities/). A celebration of Gillian’s life will be announced at a future date. All will be welcome.

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