Ellen McConnell

Ellen G. McConnell, 75, longtime resident of Sayreville, NJ before moving to Monroe, NJ, entered into eternal rest on October 25, 2025, surrounded by faith and love. Ellen's life was a true reflection of grace, kindness, and steady devotion to God, her family and friends, and all of creation.
A proud graduate of Kean University, Ellen earned her Bachelor of Education in Special Education and went on to devote 36 years to shaping young lives as a teacher in Old Bridge, NJ. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering belief in the power of education touched countless students and families over the years.
Ellen's giving spirit extended well beyond the classroom. She was deeply committed to supporting charitable causes-especially those dedicated to helping animals. Her love for all creatures great and small was reflected in her longtime support of many organizations, whether it be financially or through activism. If you received a petition to sign in your email or on FB, you knew it was from Ellen! She was an advocate for all who needed a voice.
Rooted in her strong faith, Ellen was an active member of her church community, serving faithfully in many ministries over the years. Most recent years, Ellen served as a Lay Reader and Crucifer. Of the many ministries that Ellen was a member, the Prayer Circle was the one she held closest to her heart. Ellen knew the power of prayer. Her devotion, grace, and quiet strength were an inspiration to all who knew her.
She and her beloved husband, Jimmy, shared a love of travel and adventure, often journeying over the years with friends and creating lasting memories. The latest of which was their trip to France this year. Ellen said it was the trip of a lifetime, made even more special by getting to go to Lourdes.
Ellen's radiant smile and gentle spirit were a light to everyone she met. She had a remarkable gift for friendship, keeping in touch with loved ones near and far. She was the first to ask how you were doing, and she made everyone feel seen, valued, and loved.
Ellen was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Irene Garshgo; and her sister, Judi Phillips. Ellen leaves behind her beloved husband of 49 years, James McConnell; her nephew, Robert Phillips and his wife, Anne; her sister-in-law, Debbie McConnell; her brother-in-law, Kevin McConnell and his wife, Terry; and her brother-in-law, Michael McConnell and his wife, Carol; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnephews and lifelong friends who she considered family.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend services for Ellen on Monday, November 10, 2025 at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 90 Leonardine Avenue, South River, NJ.
Visitation with the family will be from 11:00-1:00; the Memorial Service will begin at 1:30, immediately followed by the Internment in the Garden of the Resurrection. The family also invites you to join them in the Parish Hall where we will break bread together and share memories of Ellen.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a charity that was close to Ellen's heart and close to home. The South River Food Bank, 98 Jackson Street, South River, NJ 732-238-3020, www.southrivernj.org/316/Food-Bank
- OR - CASA-Coalition of Advocates of Shelter Animals, Sayreville, NJ, https://casadogsandcats.wixsite.com/casa.
The family would like to take this opportunity to thank their Holy Trinity Episcopal Church family, their Rossmoor Choir family, and family friends, for all of the love, support and meals they showered on Jim and Ellen during this time.
Ellen's light, love and laughter will be dearly missed but forever remembered by all whose lives she touched and by the lasting impact of her legacy giving.
"Well done, good and faithful servant enter into the joy of your Lord." Matthew 25:23 To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ellen McConnell, please visit our floral store.