Maureen Martha Hanley

Age 69, of Boston, Massachusetts, originally from Lincoln, Rhode Island, passed away on March 8, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, educator, and friend, Maureen touched countless lives with her kindness, wisdom, and generosity. Her funeral service will be held on March 13, 2025 at St. Cecilia's Parish, where she had been a member for many years.

Maureen is survived by her loving husband, Robert Gels, her cherished sons, Joseph Gels, Peter Gels, Paul Gels, and Thomas Gels; her sister, Maryann Pereira; her brother, Michael Hanley; and her beloved cat, Sweetheart.

Maureen dedicated her professional life to shaping future generations of optometrists. A proud graduate of the New England College of Optometry, she returned to her alma mater in 1984 as a professor, playing a vital role in educating the vast majority of optometrists in New England. Her exceptional contributions were recognized with the Dupuis Pellerin Award for Faculty Excellence and the Foster Namias Award for superior classroom instruction.

In addition to her academic work, Maureen spent 14 years providing hospital-based care at the VA in West Roxbury and also worked at Uphams Corner Community Health Center, extending her expertise and compassion beyond the classroom.

A mom to all, she was a source of care and support to everyone. Whether she was offering a place to stay for a student whose apartment had burned down or welcoming those who couldn’t travel home for Thanksgiving, her generosity knew no bounds.

Despite facing her own health challenges, Maureen volunteered with the International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation, providing support and hope to others impacted by the disease.

Maureen found great joy in her family and community. She enjoyed vacationing in Disney World and Maine, creating cherished memories with those she loved.

Maureen’s love for swimming began in childhood and remained a lifelong passion. She went on to captain the college swim team at the University of Connecticut and continued to swim throughout her life, finding enjoyment in the water.

Maureen's warmth, strength, and selflessness leaves a lasting impact on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Family and friends will honor and remember Maureen’s life by gathering for visiting hours in St. Cecilia Church, 18 Belvidere Street, Boston, on Thursday morning, March 13, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. Followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 A.M.

A private burial will take place on Friday in St. Joseph Cemetery in Cumberland, Rhode Island.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Maureen’s memory may be made to the Lymphoma Research Foundation (https://lymphoma.org) or the International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation (https://iwmf.com/).