Mary Ellen Connolly
May 29, 1943 ~ August 27, 2023
Resided in:
Portland, Maine
Mary Ellen Connolly
May 29, 1943 - August 27, 2023
Mary Ellen Connolly, 80, of Portland and Little Silver, who spent most of her life in Little Silver, New Jersey, passed away peacefully in the embrace of her family at her residence on August 27, 2023.
From her earliest days, Mary Ellen was immersed in a world of education, raised by two dedicated teachers. The sight of a substantial dictionary on the kitchen table was a constant reminder of her family's commitment to learning and intellectual growth. She often would play Scrabble later in life, and seldom lost. Her formative years were enriched by summers along the Delaware River. There, she found joy in kayaking, row boating, and the simple pleasures of her rustic surroundings.
Mary Ellen had an enduring bond with her youngest sister Margie, and the nurturing care she provided her sister during her younger years set the stage for a lifetime of compassion. These qualities became the cornerstones of Mary Ellen's adulthood, embodying the essence of warmth and hospitality. A skilled and inventive cook, she left an indelible mark with dishes like her signature pumpkin praline mousse pie, and her enthusiasm for experimenting with new recipes extended to her family. Nana’s recipes will live on in her children’s hearts and mouths, and speak to her ability to nourish the body as well as the mind.
Mary Ellen's nurturing spirit knew no bounds—she not only cared for her own children but readily welcomed the children of others into her home. Her open-heartedness embraced every individual who ever graced her table. Her husband, John, and she, would often offer their hospitality to friends in need, which was part of their belief in the importance of friendship and community.
An intrepid traveler, Mary Ellen crisscrossed the United States and explored the world, savoring diverse cultures and experiences. Her lifelong passion for music found expression in the Monmouth Civic Chorus, where she lent her voice for four decades and embarked on international singing tours. Mary Ellen shared her voice with the world.
Her path crossed with John Connolly's when she was a young waitress at 19, and he was a member of the USCG Reserve. A chance encounter on the Asbury Park boardwalk between a strapping sailor and a young woman with a large stuffed animal led to a marriage that spanned almost 61 years—a union founded on the bedrock of love and devotion.
As a mother, Mary Ellen exuded unwavering support and affection. Her calm wisdom, intellectual acumen, and nurturing guidance were the hallmarks of her parenting. Remarkably, even while raising eight children, she pursued her education and earned a bachelor's degree in special education, graduating magna cum laude. Her genuine and kind-hearted nature shone through in her involvement with St. James Parish in Red Bank, NJ, and the Church of the Nativity in Fair Haven, NJ. She and John were committed choir members of both parishes.
In the role of "Nana," Mary Ellen found boundless joy. Her grandchildren shared a unique and special connection with their grandmother, leaving no doubt in their minds that they were cherished.
Mary Ellen Connolly's legacy is one of authenticity, love, and kindness—a radiant beacon that illuminated the lives of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her enduring impact will undoubtedly reverberate through generations to come.
Predeceased by her parents, brother Robert Lincoln, and sister Patricia Katz, Mary Ellen is survived by her husband of nearly 61 years, John Connolly; children, Patrick Connolly and wife Suzanne of Falmouth; Maureen Connolly of Little Silver, NJ; Tara Connolly of Little Silver, NJ; Kate Connolly and husband Thomas Doherty of Portland; Megan Connolly and her husband Kevin Johannen of Portland; Jerome Connolly and wife Jennifer Hill of Calabasas, CA; Andrew Connolly of Wilder, VT; Nicholas Connolly of New York, NY; grandchildren, Sean, Emily, Grace, Laura, Devin, Jonathon, Jacob, Elizabeth, Silas, Jack, Daniel, Henry, Andrew, Iris, Ian, Elaine, Olivia, Isla; sister, Margaret Rose Blaha of Toms River, NJ; and many extended relatives and friends.
Visiting Hours celebrating Mary Ellen's remarkable life will be held on Tuesday, September 5 from 4-7PM at the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. Prayers will be recited at the Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 6 at 9AM, followed by a 10AM Mass of Christian Burial at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress Street, Portland. Interment will take place on Thursday, September 7 at Evergreen Cemetery, Stevens Avenue, Portland.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Alzheimer's Association in Mary Ellen's name.
Though Mary Ellen is dearly missed, her spirit will continue to reside in our hearts eternally.
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Such a beautiful tribute to a lovely woman. I will very much miss our chats and seeing her in our neighborhood. Her legacy will live on in all of her wonderful family. May she rest in peace.❤️
What a wonderful woman Mary Ellen was! I will always remember being part of the family on visits to Woodbine! Her spirit will live on through her family and loved ones.Sending heartfelt condolences.
<3 Areta Held Masters
I met Mary Ellen in the early nineties at Monmouth Civic Chorus. She was gracious and kind. Making music together was joyful. I will always remember her gentle nature and loving spirit. Clearly she has touched many lives. My Deepest condolences.
Her adult children
Caring about others who had nothing
She seemed to take everything in her life in stride, while most of us experience ups, downs & a bumpy ride raising a family, running a busy home & working.. Had time for everyone and truly cared about others.
Her always happy positive attitude
My sincere sympathy to John, Maureen and family. Very shocked to hear about Mary Ellen’s passing. May she be with the angels and saints.