Mary Ellen Walsh

Mary Ellen Walsh of Monroe, Connecticut, passed on June 21, 2021.

She was the beloved wife of John J. Walsh, loving mother to Dennis, Linda and Peter Walsh, and grandmother to seven dear grandchildren.

Mary Ellen was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut to James and Evelyn Kirk, nee Siksay, on August 14, 1937. Her brother, James Kirk, with whom she enjoyed a close relationship, resides in Florida. Mary Ellen was raised in Bridgeport and graduated from Bassick High School in 1955. She married John, also of Bridgeport, on April 12, 1958, while he was in law school. They settled in Mamaroneck, New York in 1959, when John started practicing law in New York City. Their children were born between 1959 and 1963. The family moved to Pelham, New York in 1966. Mary Ellen and John lived there until 2002, when they moved to Monroe. They also owned a beach home in Quonochontaug, Rhode Island for many years.

Mary Ellen was a superb mother and homemaker dedicated always to the happiness and health of her family. She led by example, taught her children right from wrong and was a shining example of the power of love and good cheer. Whether her children needed first aid or moral support - or books, clothes, shoes, sports equipment or guitar strings, Mary Ellen was always there to provide.

Over the years she developed extraordinary skills as a gardener and her lovingly cultivated gardens were a source of great beauty and joy for her and everyone who experienced them. She avidly collected cookbooks and recipes and was an excellent chef and baker. For many years she selected fine fabrics, cutting and sewing them into clothing that rivaled the creations of professional designers. She was also a talented decorator of her homes who carefully assembled furnishings that reflected her good taste and sense of style.

Mary Ellen loved to entertain friends, family, and John’s law colleagues. She was also an animal lover and had many adored dogs and cats over the years. She and John enjoyed travel in the U. S. and abroad. She accompanied John at law firm and Bar Association events over the years where her beauty, cheerful personality and wit charmed many a lawyer and judge on a regular basis. Mary Ellen and John were also devotees of the Metropolitan Opera where Pavarotti and Domingo were their particular favorites.

Visitation for friends and family will be held on Sunday, June 27 between 2 and 6 p. m. at the Spadaccino & Leo P. Gallagher Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT. A funeral mass will be held on Monday, June 28 at 11 a. m. at the Saint Jude Roman Catholic Church, 707 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT.