Obituary of Mary Ellen Martin

Our loving mother, Mary Ellen (McGowan) Martin, a.k.a. Mickey, died peacefully at home on November 9, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones.

Mom was born on November 24, 1936 to John and Edna McGowan in Troy, New York.

Mary graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1954, and furthered her education at St. Peter’s School of Nursing and Dutchess Community College.

As she began her 33 year nursing career at Hudson River Psychiatric Center, Mom met the love of her life of 65 years, Edward Martin, who passed away in 2022.

She took great pride in providing care for mental health and portrayed her healing skills and respect for others that went far beyond her job, shaping the morals of her life. After her retirement from the hospital, she continued on with caring for students at Hagan Elementary working as a monitor/nurse for eight years.

Along the way, she created an abundance of friendships that lasted throughout her lifetime. A devoted wife, mom and grandma with a heart full of passion, she embraced life through her love of sports, holiday baking, trips to casinos, and football pools, which she frequently won. But her greatest passion of all was her family. Summer vacations to New Hampshire and Ocean City were traditional, and touring Ireland was Mom and Dad’s trip of a lifetime. She was always opening her door to others with kindness and generosity. Mom was a force to be reckoned with. Never was there a stronger, harder working, smarter, and loving woman. Her wisdom, grounded in years of experience, provided comfort and clarity, helping us navigate life's challenges with grace.

Throughout 65 years of marriage, Mom and Dad were the pillars that upheld their family. Her grandchildren would say that Grandma was their safe haven with unwavering honesty and a heart full of love. She always offered straight talk that came from a place of deep care.

Mary leaves behind her five children: Mary (Rick) Balfour, grandchildren Lindsey and Michael, and great grandchild Michael; John (Michelle) Martin and granddaughter Kierstin; Edward (Susan) Martin, grandchildren Alyssa (Brandon) Devens and Kyle, and great grandchildren Hudson and Dylan; Joan (Edward) Horning and grandchildren Erin (Nick) Lacativa, Brianna, and Danielle; Son Michael Martin. And her beloved cat, Onyx. Mary was predeceased by her sister, Patricia Turner (2023). She is survived by her loving sisters, Katherine Gorman, and Susan (Bob) Buckley, and several nieces and nephews. She will be deeply and forever missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Calling hours will be Sunday, November 17th, from 1-5 PM at Timothy P. Doyle F.H., Inc., 371 Hooker Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. Services will be at 4:30PM in the Funeral Home. Entombment will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mental Health America of Dutchess County and/or Hudson Valley Hospice.