Mary Ellen McGrail

1938 - 2023

McGrail, Mary Ellen (Kelly), - 84, of Ocean City, passed away peacefully at home with her loving family at her side on January 20, 2023. Born in Philadelphia, PA, on August 9, 1938 to Mary and Edward Kelly, she lived in Philadelphia (Southwest), Darby, PA, Williamstown, Egg Harbor Township, and Ocean City, NJ. She worked at an insurance company until the birth of her first born, Joseph, in 1959. As a beloved mother and wife she devoted her life almost solely to the care of her family (she was given the title "Domestic goddess" by one of her children). And all through her husband Joe's professional career and his other activities she was the 'wind beneath his wings'. For example, she had to care for five children, the oldest being only nine, for 5 days a week while Joe was on an assignment that spanned 6 months. But she also cherished the long lasting friendships she made outside of the family. Her pleasant demeanor coupled with her joyous sense of humor made her fun to be around. Above all else, she was blessed with an innate ability to forgive and love unconditionally. Mary was preceded in death by her sons Stephen (6 mos.) and Robert (32), her grandson Anthony Guldin (6), her brother John, her parents, her niece Michele Althouse, and nephew Daniel Heiser. Those she leaves behind to mourn her loss include Joe, her husband of 64 years, daughters Maureen (Steve), Ellen (Anthony) Guldin, and sons Joseph (Kim), Michael (Donna), sister Margaret Heiser, brothers Edward and Joseph Kelly, five grandchildren two great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and dear friends.The family would like to acknowledge the compassionate and heartfelt care provided to Mary by the outstanding nurses and aides and the support and guidance provided to the family by the Social Worker and Chaplin of Holy Redeemer Hospice. The service for Mrs. McGrail will be held on Saturday January 28th at Twelve O'clock noon from the Godfrey Funeral Home of Palermo, 644 S. Shore Rd Palermo, NJ. Where friends may call form 10 O'clock AM until the time of service. Interment will follow in St. Mary's cemetery, Williamstown NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Holy Redeemer Hospice, 1801 North Rte. 9, Swainton, NJ 08210 or the Sisters of Charity, 350 Bernardsville Rd., Mendham, NJ 07945. For condolences to the family visit www.Godfreyfuneral home.com