Mary Ellen McGurty

Mary Ellen McGurty, a beacon of light and warmth in the lives of all who knew her, died peacefully on September 14, 2025, in Cortlandt Manor, NY. Born in Peekskill, NY, during a memorable Christmas Day blizzard in 1947, Mary Ellen was a daughter of the much-admired Dr. John A. McGurty, Sr. and Josephine Trenty McGurty.
Mary Ellen's formative years were spent in Peekskill, where she attended the Assumption School, followed by Mary Immaculate High School in Ossining. She furthered her education at Manhattanville College in Purchase and completed her academic journey at Fordham University at Lincoln Center, earning a Master's degree.
Dedicated to her career, Mary Ellen served as a social worker, clinician, and administrator at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York City. Her compassion and commitment to those in need were unparalleled. Her professional involvement extended to the Westchester Board of Health, where she was a valued member, contributing her expertise and knowledge to improve community health services.
Mary Ellen's interests and contributions to her local Peekskill community were diverse and impactful. As a proud member of the Garden Club of Peekskill, she shared her love for beauty and horticulture with fellow enthusiasts. She was the Chairperson at the time who spearheaded the creation of a scholarship fund for the Garden Club to give yearly to an outstanding high school senior. Her dedication to civic service was further exemplified in her role as vice chair of the Peekskill Republican Party, where she worked tirelessly to uphold the values she held dear. Mary Ellen also served with distinction on the City of Peekskill Board of Education from 1991 to 1994, advocating for educational excellence and the well-being of the city's youth. "Mary Ellen liked nothing better than sitting outside in the open air, in her beloved Peekskill downtown, listening to the Westchester swing band as they filled the night with music."
For those who had the privilege of knowing Mary Ellen she will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments and community involvement but also for the grace and kindness she exuded in every facet of her life. Her friendship was a source of comfort and inspiration to many.
Mary Ellen's memory will be held close by her brother, Dr. John McGurty, Jr., his wife Kathy and their family, along with a tapestry of dear friends and colleagues whose lives she enriched. Her memory will be cherished and celebrated, as she lived a life that embodied the virtues of love, service, and compassion.
As we say goodbye to Mary Ellen, we hold tight to our memories. We take comfort in knowing that her spirit is at peace.
In Maryellen's memory donations to either the Garden Club of Peekskill Scholarship Fund, or the Peekskill Museum are greatly appreciated.
Garden Club of Peekskill
c/o Sally Bentley
1840 Crompond Rd. #4C1
Peekskill, NY 10566
The Peekskill Museum
124 Union Ave.
Peekskill, NY 10566