Mary Ellen Conway

Mary Ellen Conway, daughter of the late Hilary and Cecelia Criste , a cherished pillar of her community and a beacon of faith and compassion, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 1, 2026 in Newark, Delaware.

Born on August 19, 1933, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Mary Ellen's life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of family, and the impact of a life well-lived. Her gentle departure from this world marked the end of a life journey that has left indelible imprints on the hearts and lives of all who knew her.
Mary Ellen spent her early years absorbing the vibrant spirit of Pittsburgh. After graduating from St. Benedict's Catholic High School,, she worked at the Bell Telephone Company in Pittsburgh, then married and raised her children while volunteering as a reading specialist at the local elementary school. She then worked at Wilmington Trust for 15 years after her youngest started middle school as Head Teller, overseeing 30 tellers. After retirement, she used her experience to volunteer with AARP to do taxes at no charge at local senior centers.
She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, and an active volunteer counting the weekly collection as well as being a Eucharist Minister. Mary Ellen also served as a member of the St. Thomas Columbiettes. She loved traveling, baking and cooking for her family, family card games and reading. Spending time with her family was her greatest joy. She considered herself the richest person because of the love and devotion of her family and friends.
She is predeceased by her beloved husband, John M. Conway; and their loving son, John A. Conway; a great grandson, John-John Watson; and three brothers, Hilary, Paul and Robert.

Her memory will be cherished by her devoted children: Patricia (John), Kathleen, Michael (Shari), Mary (Joseph), Caroline Joseph (Nancy) and Yolanda DiVirgilio, wife of John A. Conway. Mary Ellen's legacy extends to her 16 grandchildren, Danielle James (Eric), Andrea Thompson, Michael Makar (Christiana), John M. Conway, Nicol McGraw, Matthew Makar, Katie Watson, Jackie McGraw, Adrian Conway, Dan Conway, Chris Vidal, Hilary Werth (Matthew), Geoffrey Merritt, Anna Conway, Abigail Merritt, and Matthew Buczik; 14 great-grandchildren; and 14 great-great grandchildren, whom she adored. She is also survived by her brother, John Criste (Joann); and sister, Alice Makar.
For Mary Ellen, life was a gift that she unwrapped each day with gratitude, humility, and love. Now, as she takes her place among the heavenly chorus, we take comfort in knowing that her soul rests with the Lord. Her journey on earth may have concluded, but her story-etched in the lives she impacted-continues. May we honor her memory by emulating her virtues and living by the example she set.
Rest in profound peace, Mary Ellen Conway. Your work here is done, but the love you shared endures forever.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 9, at 11:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 15 Gender Rd, Newark Delaware. Interment will be held privately at a later date in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.