Colette G. Flanagan, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, was called home to the Lord on October 31, 2026.

Born on January 18, 1940, in Philadelphia, Colette was the youngest of eight children born to Margaret (Scullin) and Edward J. Glackin.

After graduating from St. Francis School of Nursing in Trenton, Colette married the love of her life, John H. Flanagan, affectionately known as Flan. Together, they moved to Bridgeport, Connecticut, where they began building their family. After welcoming eight children, they eventually moved to Bethlehem, Connecticut, where their family grew by two more.

Colette devoted much of her life to caring for others, both as a nurse and as a mother. She was a compassionate, kind, and dedicated nurse who touched the lives of countless patients throughout her career. Later in life, when her own children were grown, she became the school nurse at a developmental preschool. She absolutely adored those children and treated each and every one as if they were her own. It was also there that she formed special friendships that lasted a lifetime and became like family.

Above all, Colette loved her family and friends and never passed up an opportunity to have a good time. Whether spending an afternoon by the pool, welcoming anyone who happened to stop by, taking casino trips with Flan, cheering at sporting events, celebrating holidays, dancing the night away at her nieces' and nephews' weddings, or teaching everyone how to body surf in Sea Isle City, NJ, Colette was always the life of the party. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome, included, and part of the fun.

Colette was a strong woman who didn't scare easily. In fact, her only real fear was missing out! She embraced life wholeheartedly and made memories wherever she went. To say she left her mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to know her would be an understatement. Her kindness, laughter, generosity, and unmistakable zest for life will forever be remembered by the many people who loved her. Her absence will leave a void that can never be filled, but the memories she created will be treasured always.

Colette was predeceased by her beloved husband, John H. Flanagan, and her daughter, Colette C. Flanagan.

She is survived by her children: Tim (Shaun, deceased) Flanagan, Kathy Flanagan, Mary Clare (Richie) Murphy, Joseph (Colleen) Flanagan, Maureen (David) Chattergy, Edward (Andie) Flanagan, Patrick Flanagan, Ellen (Jesse) Cecchini, and Maggie (Jason) Stokes.

She also leaves behind several grandchildren and great-grandchild, and many nieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Colette's life was defined by love, family, friendship, and an ability to make every gathering a little more fun. She will be missed beyond words and remembered with love and laughter by all those whose lives she touched.

A celebration of life will be held on November 14 from 11:00 to 1:00 at Munson-Lovetere Funeral Home, 2 School Street Woodbury, with a service starting at 12:15. To leave an online condolence for Colette's family, please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com