Englewood Makes History

Quigley, Silverius J. (1880-1960)

Item

Title

Quigley, Silverius J. (1880-1960)

Description

Rev. Silverius J. Quigley, O. Carm. (born Joseph Quigley, March 6, 1880 – July 1960) was a Carmelite priest, educator, and church builder whose nearly six decades of priestly service shaped Catholic life in Englewood and Teaneck, New Jersey.

A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Quigley received his early education at St. James’ parochial school and later attended Holy Ghost College (now Duquesne University). He entered the Carmelite Order and pursued advanced theological training at the Carmelite Seminary in Niagara Falls, Ontario, followed by studies at the American College in Rome. He was ordained to the priesthood on July 11, 1903, beginning what would become 57 years of service to the Church.

Father Quigley taught early in his career, including assignments in Chicago, before entering parish ministry. In 1909, he was assigned to St. Cecilia’s Roman Catholic Church in Englewood, where he would serve for 24 years as assistant, prior, and pastor. During his tenure, St. Cecilia’s underwent a major period of growth and transformation. He played a central role in the construction of a new church complex, including the rectory and parish facilities, and was especially committed to Catholic education. Under his leadership, the parish developed a strong school system, culminating in the establishment of St. Cecilia’s High School, a milestone that drew attention well beyond Englewood.

In 1933, Father Quigley was transferred to St. Anastasia’s Roman Catholic Church in Teaneck, where he would remain for 27 years, serving until his retirement shortly before his death. Shortly after arriving, he publicly declared the need for a parish school, a vision realized with the opening of St. Anastasia’s school. The first graduating class in 1936 numbered 28 students, marking the beginning of a lasting educational legacy. During his tenure, the parish continued to expand, including the development of school and convent facilities that anchored St. Anastasia’s as a major Catholic institution in Teaneck.

Widely regarded as both an educator and a builder, Father Quigley was known for steady leadership, administrative skill, and a deep commitment to parish life. Within the Carmelite Order, his abilities were recognized through assignments of responsibility and trust, reflecting his reputation for sound judgment and organizational strength.

Father Quigley retired as pastor emeritus in June 1960. He died later that summer at Holy Name Hospital, at the age of 80. His passing prompted public mourning in Teaneck and Englewood, communities shaped by decades of his ministry.

He is remembered as a priest whose legacy was built not only in brick and mortar, but in schools, parishes, and generations of parishioners who benefited from his vision, discipline, and lifelong devotion to faith and education.

"St.Cecilia's Pastor is to Celebrate Silver Jubilee." The Record,  June 1, 1928.

"Town Mourns Priest's Death." The Record, 29 July 1960, p. 1, 4.
Citation:


Creator

"St.Cecilia's Pastor is to Celebrate Silver Jubilee." The Record,  June 1, 1928.

Date

1928

Rights

Public Domain

Source of File Attached

"Town Mourns Priest's Death." The Record, 29 July 1960, p. 1, 4.

Collection

Citation

"St.Cecilia's Pastor is to Celebrate Silver Jubilee." The Record,  June 1, 1928., “Quigley, Silverius J. (1880-1960),” Englewood Makes History, accessed October 2, 2026, https://archive.englewoodmakeshistory.org/items/show/692.

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