Mary Ellen Lyons

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Ellen Lyons, 80, who died peacefully on January 7, 2026, at the Connecticut Baptist Home following a lengthy illness.
Mary Ellen was born in Meriden, Connecticut, on August 30, 1945, the daughter of the late John Joseph Lyons, Sr., and Helen (Daly) Lyons. She was a proud graduate of Maloney High School and continued her education at Central Connecticut State University and Trinity College, where she earned her Master's degree in English.
She lived in Farmington, where she resided for over 40 years. She dedicated her life to education, teaching at Rocky Hill High School, where she also coached the girls' basketball team, as well as in the Hartford Public School system. She later shared her knowledge and passion for teaching as an instructor at Manchester Community College. Her commitment to her students and colleagues left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Mary Ellen embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She loved to travel and proudly visited 49 states and explored destinations around the world. She enjoyed gardening and golfing and cherished her winters in Florida. She was known for her warmth, independence, and adventurous spirit. She will be deeply missed for her wonderful sense of humor, her beautiful smile, and her caring heart.
Mary Ellen is survived by her brother, Jack Lyons, and his wife, Charlotte; her faithful friend of many years, Anne Johnson; her two nieces, Erin Lyons-Barten and Cara Maxwell; her five nephews, Daniel Lyons, Michael Lyons, Jay Lyons, Erik Lyons, and Patrick Lyons; and all of their children. She will also be fondly remembered by her many friends.
In addition to her parents, Mary Ellen was predeceased by her sister, Sally Anne (Lyons) Sheremeta; her brother, Daniel Lyons; and her niece, Melanie (Lyons) Deware. She was also predeceased by her two beloved Australian Shepherds, Oliver and Buddy.
Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the John J. Ferry & Sons Funeral Home, 88 East Main Street, Meriden, Connecticut 06450. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. at St. Faustina Parish, St. Stanislaus Church, 82 Akron Street, Meriden. Burial will follow in St. Laurent Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary Ellen's memory may be made to the Connecticut Humane Society or the ASPCA.
For online condolences, please visit www.jferryfh.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Ellen, please visit our floral store.