Mary Ellen (Timothy) Mileski

Mary Ellen Mileski passed away peacefully on September 25th as her loved ones prayed with her. She was born on August 31st, 1933 on Staten Island, New York to Mary and John Timothy.

Mom graduated from St. Peter’s High School, where she was a member of the Dramatic Club, Athletic Club and Debating Society. Her friends and classmates called her “Timmie” and her yearbook inscription read, “Timmie..a heart of gold…lovable ways…always honest and sincere.” These words held true and captured mom all of her ninety years. Mom met the love of her life, Carl, while he was home on Staten Island on shore leave from the Navy. They married May 1, 1953 and began their lives together on Staten Island where they had five children. Mom was faith filled and an active member of St. Rita Parish where her children attended grade school. She prayed the rosary daily and it provided her tremendous strength and comfort.

Mom also had an adventurous spirit, so when the opportunity arose for Dad to oversee the construction of an oil refinery in Bahrain they took the leap of faith. They moved their young family across the world in what was truly the adventure of a lifetime. Mom’s spunk and zest for life shined through as she raced her stallion (Sundance) as well as her red Fiat through the deserts of Bahrain on both horseback and behind the wheel. A highlight was her amazing second place finish among all male riders in the biggest horse race of the year in Bahrain! Mom loved telling a good story and a good joke, and the answer to “would you like dessert” was always, “yes”. Mom and Dad loved to travel, and took us all on many adventures across Europe and the Middle East. A special highlight for them being in Sorrento, Italy together and being blessed by Pope John Paul II.

When they returned stateside they settled in Ridgewood, NJ, and Mom again became active in her Catholic parish. They enjoyed summers on the Jersey Shore and being close to family and old friends. Ultimately, Mom and Dad settled in Texas where they enjoyed many years of golf, tennis and bridge with friends. They had cherished friends both near and far with countless wonderful stories of lives well lived. She was a devoted daughter and wife, caring for her mother, Mary, with her sister Eileen, in her final years, and for her beloved Carl as his dementia worsened. Mom lived her final years with her eldest son, Bill and his wife Joan, who provided a great deal of love and support.

Mom was a beautiful example to us all, caring deeply for her family, friends and neighbors. She adored her grandchildren: Meg, Bridget, Brendan, Jack, Danny, Amber, Mary Ellen, Katie, Patrick and Mia; and great grandchildren, Leo, Eloise and Mason. She left an indelible mark on all our hearts.

Mom is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl; son, Jack; sister, Eileen; and brother, John.

She is survived by her children, Bill and his wife Joan, Patti Bryck and her husband, Steve, Jim, and Mary Ellen Mazza and her husband, Mike.

The family will have a private ceremony to celebrate Mary Ellen’s life.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Catholic Charities.