MaryEllen Meskell, 78, Binghamton, passed away in the Elcor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center after a long illness.
Born 1945 in Scranton, PA she was the daughter of the late Daniel and Burnetta (Flaherty) Meskell.
She was a graduate of St Paul’s School in Scranton. A lover of education, Mary Ellen went on to receive her Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of St. Rose in Elementary education and a Master of Science Degree in Education from the State University of New York at Cortland. She also attended graduate school at the State University of New York at Oneonta where she focused her studies on education counseling. She went on to have a long and meaningful career as a teacher and administrator in the Broome County Catholic Schools. She most recently helped others by volunteering her time with the Mom’s House Organization in Johnson City. A woman of deep faith, Mary Ellen was a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Binghamton.
Surviving are cousins including Michael Flaherty (Ruth) and family of Farmington, New York, Mary Colleran (James) and family of Radnor, Pa, Patricia Morrissey (Thomas) and family of Springfield, Va., Judy Berry (Wayne) and family of Chester, Pa. and John (Jack) O’Malley of Plainfield NJ; her beloved canine daughter, Gracie who she loved tremendously; countless faculty, staff and students whose lives she touched.
She was preceded in death by members of the Meskell and Flaherty families.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday July 10 at 10am in the St. Francis of Assisi Church 1049 Chenango Street Binghamton, NY 13901.
Interment, Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, New York.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mary Ellen’s honor should be made to Mom’s House 770 Harry L Drive, Johnson City, NY 13790
Danny Ceballos
Miss Meskell was hands-down my favorite teacher ever. We stayed in touch over the years through Facebook and she continued to inspire me – always laughing with me about memories from 1975 St John’s school days. She was a rare one of a kind human being – kind, generous, so smart, and always quick with a laugh. Rest in Peace, beautiful Miss Meskell – a life well lived.
Diana (DeOrazio) Hayden
Miss Meskell was a true gem! I was s student at St John’s and I was so glad to have reconnected with her years later on Facebook. She truly was my favorite teacher from there. Lifting all of her family in prayer. May she rest in peace.
Katie Larrabee Wilcox
MEM was one of my favorite teachers. She harnessed my enthusiasm and taught me to enjoy social studies. As an adult, she gave me such encouragement as my mom battled cancer. She attended both of my parents funerals and I am forever grateful for the gift of her friendship.
Patricia Coyle
Dear Friends and Family,
It was a joy to work with Mary Ellen and observe how creative she was as a teacher. Students and parents alike had confidence and respect for her. Our years together at St. Thomas are among my happiest memories. May she rest in peace. Love and prayers, Sr. Pat Coyle
Olivia Dennison
MEM was one of my favorite teachers growing up. I have fond memories of my time in her 3rd grade classroom at St. Thomas Aquinas School in 2003-2004, being a member of her Odyssey of the Mind team in the following years, and spending a few Christmas holiday dinners with her and my family. I admired her beautiful paintings/artwork she would share in class and we could always count on her to challenge us in a fun way at school. Rest in peace Ms. Meskell.
Kate Garger
Miss Meskell was without a doubt one of my all-time favorite teachers. She was kind and patient, and a great mentor. She was my 6th grade teacher at St. John’s and all the students loved her. Rest In Peace, MEM.
Amata (Eels) Miller
Mary Ellen was one of the finest teachers I had the honor of working with. We first met back in the mid 1970s, as teachers at St. John’s School and also at St. Thomas Aquinas School. She was always smiling and I loved her special giggle, when we would tell each other funny ‘classroom’ stories. MEM was so creative, and always put forth her utmost effort as a ‘top notch’ educator! There was never a doubt that her students were the #1 priority in her life! I will always cherish the time we had together throughout our many years in the Broome County Catholic schools, both as co-workers and close friends. Rest in peace, Mary Ellen, you accomplished God’s mission that He gave you, to the fullest extent! Your endless hard work and sincere dedication will never be forgotten! You are (and always will be) loved by all the many lives you touched! Rest in peace, my friend!
Frances Adornato
What a great lady.So kind and helpful.May she rest in peace.She taught me and my sister when we were at St.John’s elementary in my hometown of Susquehanna Pa. She touched so many lives and will be greatly missed.She was a wonderful teacher.Prayers for her family at this difficult time.God bless her. ♥