Mary Ellen Marino

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Mary Ellen Marino, 84, of Charleston WV., who passed away peacefully at home after a long illness on August 30, 2025. She was a beacon of love, strength, and unwavering devotion, and her absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives. Born September 19th, 1940 and preceded in death by her parents, Robert Leslie and Bertha Harrah, brothers, Robert (Bob) and Joseph (Joe) Harrah.
Mary Ellen lived a life filled with purpose and compassion along-side her husband in the family business, Sam Marino General Contracting, which they started together over 50 years ago.
Mary Ellen enjoyed playing the piano and organ as well as sewing clothing for her children in their younger years. She loved collecting bells, dolls and had an extensive southwest collection. Mary Ellen had a special love for Eagles and Angels. She really loved spending time with her husband and family at their beach home in Cherry Grove, SC then later at their home in Pawleys Island, SC. They enjoyed taking long walks on the beach, golf cart rides and riding bikes together. She also enjoyed spending time with family at numerous occasions. Mary Ellen was also a member of First Presbyterian Church in Charleston.
Mary Ellen was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and her love for her family knew no bounds.
Those left to cherish her memories include her devoted husband, Sam Marino, Sr. for the past 67 years, her loving brother, Dan Harrah of Lincoln, Neb., her loving sisters-in-law's, Libby Davis and Carla (Tom) Saunders, her loving children, Tammy (Tony) Brookins, Sam Marino, Jr (Joanette), Chrissy (Bill) Evans, and Jason Marino, along with 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for their love, kindness and unwavering support shown by her caregivers, Debra, Krista, Shyanne and Sonjia, in addition to other caregivers that cared for her during her long illness. We appreciate your dedication and exceptional care that made a profound difference. We also are especially grateful for the Hospice nurses and staff that provided Mary Ellen with excellent services and kindness that will never be forgotten.
A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for Mary Ellen may be made to Hospice Care, 1606 Kanawha Boulevard W, Charleston, WV 25387, and First Presbyterian Church, 16 Leon Sullivan Way, Charleston, WV 25301.
Good Shepherd Mortuary 335 Fifth Avenue, South Charleston, WV 25303 has been entrusted with the arrangements.