Mary Ellen Kiernan

Mary Ellen Kiernan passed away peacefully February 2nd surrounded by her family, at the age of 88. She was born in Albany, New York on May 25, 1935.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years Stephen M. Kiernan, children Michael Kiernan (his children Sean, Ana and Natalie and his wife Stephanie Buyce), Ellen Ayers (her husband Jeffrey and their children Alexandra and Charlotte), and Ann Kiernan Gorson (husband Kenneth and their children Stephen and Kathryn) and her brother Daniel J. Hogarty Jr. She is predeceased by her parents, Daniel J. Hogarty and Marjorie Hogarty (Connolly).

Mary Ellen grew up in Albany N.Y, graduated from The Academy of Holy Names, and received her bachelor’s degree from The College of Saint Rose. She remained close friends all her life with classmates that attended both schools. Mary Ellen was a gracious, kind and loving person who was quick to laugh and radiated warmth and joy.  Most importantly, she was deeply devoted to her family and friends.

She met the love of her life, her husband Steve, at Burden Lake where their parents both had summer camps.

Mary Ellen had many interests. She was an accomplished painter, gardener, quilter and volunteered throughout her life, often dropping off meals for friends in need. But what she loved the most was having her children and grandchildren over to Camp Kiernan, their beautiful home in New Scotland, N.Y. for family weekends that included sunset toasts, delicious meals (an excellent cook) swimming, fishing, and toasting marshmallows by the fire.

Mary Ellen and Steve traveled extensively and were often joined in travel by best friends. They wintered for twenty years in Marco Island, Florida before settling there in 2018.

Marme, as she was known to her grandkids, will always be in our hearts. She was such a sweet kind soul who touched many people.

Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.danielkeenanfuneralhome.com.