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Stephanie Bender posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 4, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mrs. Ellingham. I was moved to her classroom in second grade. Though at first I was intimidated, her care for those of us in her care was apparent and I quickly adjusted. I remember not only her care, but her quick-witted sense of humor, and the look she gave as she waited for us to introduce her properly at our parent-teacher conferences. Looking back, I can see how much she enjoyed teaching! Her classroom was fun - I remember the 1776-1976 bulletin board she made, the learning centers, and the "Island," of course. If we misbehaved we weren't sent out of the classroom, we sat in the middle of it! :) Through my remaining years of school - even in college, I made several stops at Paul Road, hoping to catch her before she left for the day - her greeting never grew old. I recall noticing, years later, that she was using a leather key chain I made her - in second grade! I recently re-connected with Miss Mahoney and learned of Mrs. Ellingham's passing. For many years - and many to come - she has been held lovingly in my heart. I'm grateful that our paths crossed those many years ago. Much love to John, and others of her family and friends. She was a treasure, to be sure.
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Marlene Ludlow posted a condolence
Friday, October 8, 2021
First, my deepest sympathies to Mary Jo's family during this time. I hope knowing that you are not alone in your sorrow brings some comfort. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
I reluctantly say Mary Jo, because to me she will always be Mrs. Ellingham! My favorite teacher of all time and my inspiration for becoming a teacher. I remember my 3rd grade year probably the best of all my elementary years because my dream of having Mrs. Ellingham came true. We first met when I was in kindergarten and my brother was in Miss Mahoney's 3rd grade class. Mrs. Ellingham loved my furry white winter coat, and adored my Winnie-the-Pooh dress from kindergarten. By the time I got to third grade, I had outgrown both, and Mrs. Ellingham was so disappointed. My first "crush" started in her room when she announced she had "almost twins" in her class that March. I think she would find it funny that Jimmy and I are still friends to this day. But Mrs. Ellingham didn't stop teaching me once I left 3r grade. Fast forward about 12 years, when I entered college to become a teacher.
This time, Mrs. Ellingham invited me as a volunteer to her classroom. For the next 3 years, I spent my May-June with her and learning how the last few weeks of school go. At this point, I was told to call her Mary Jo. Nope, sorry....you are still Mrs. Ellingham to me, I respect you too much. Then, after I graduated college, I started subbing and got a long-term position as a kindergarten teacher at Paul Road. (in the same room I went to kindergarten) Talk about weird! But what I remember was the big hug and tears of congratulations I received from Mary Jo ....because now as a teacher....I "had" to call her by her first name.
Mary Jo and I continued our friendship throughout the years through Christmas cards. I was so excited to share pictures of my husband, and boys with her. She has (and always will) have a special place in my heart. She was my inspiration in becoming a teacher and my role model of the kind of teacher I hope I've become. Although, she was the best and I don't know if I could ever truly measure up. We shared a love for Winnie-the-Pooh and I always think of her when I see Pooh and friends.
I'm heartbroken to know she's gone, but am content knowing she is at peace. She will always live in my heart and my fondest of memories. Until we meet again....(and I'll be wearing a Winnie-the-Pooh dress)...rest in Peace. You were the best of the Best!! "See you Along the Way"
Love and Sympathy.
Marlene (Maier) Ludlow
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Caitlin (Melville) Devendorf posted a condolence
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Mrs. Ellingham was THAT person that when asked 'who was your favorite teacher?' instantly comes to mind. Her warmth, patience and ability to engage her students stayed with me long past my year in 3rd grade as I often found myself thinking of her in my own classroom years later.
My best friend Casey (also an elementary teacher!) and I spent many an afternoon of 4th and 5th grade in her room, helping staple papers or hang displays. She would treat us to Pizza Hut at the end of the year and I remember feeling like I was dining with a celebrity as she was held in such high esteem at Paul Road School and beyond.
When I graduated from high school I received a packet of photos that she had saved from my third grade year and mailed to me. The level of organization and thoughtfulness that went into that gesture is astounding.
I am positive Mrs. Ellingham's impact on her many students has spread forth to make the world a better place - one of the ultimate goals of being a teacher!
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Joan Ellingham Eldridge posted a condolence
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Mary Jo, my sister (in-law), my friend, was one of the nicest person you could ever meet. We graduated the same year, she from Norte Dame, me from LeRoy HS. So we knew each other through mutual friends, in our teenage years, as well as growing up in the village. I remember on my daughter Becky’s first birthday party, John brought Mary Jo. I was in their wedding, and she was a wonderful Aunt to my Marty and Becky. Through the years we spent family time through various holidays, lunches, shopping, and winters in Florida. She was so caring and devoted to our Mom. She is going to be so missed, by her friends, family and especially by my brother John. Even though I can’t be in LeRoy for her services, my heart is. Lovingly, Joan❤️
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Mary Ellen Brown posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
So sorry to hear about Mary Jo's passing. Such good memories in our early years at St. Peter's, Holy Family, Notre Dame. Also the family get togethers at the wonderful old house in PA (outhouse and all). And, of course, the Friday nights when the Boresome Foursome (MJ, Meb, Sue, Beth) met at each other's houses for rock n roll and Chef Boyardee pizzas. So glad I was able to spend time with Mary Jo (and John!) at the Notre Dame 50th class reunion. Rest well, dear friend.
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janice steimer posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
My mother Grace Sibbald taught with Mary Jo at Paul Rd for many year and spoke highly of her. I myself was a student of the then Miss Murphy for back to back years as then we split time between grade levels and teachers. I remember her as patient, soft spoken and kind.Thoughts and prayers to the family
Janice Steimer
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Art Shilen posted a condolence
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
I am sad to read about the passing of Mary Jo. She was an outstanding classroom teacher dedicated to the students she served. Always well organized and prepared to provide quality instruction and classroom management.
Art Shilen, Retired Principal of the Paul Road School, Gates Chili Central School District
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Jean Kelly posted a condolence
Monday, October 4, 2021
Since both Mary Jo and I were third grade teachers, we decided to have our classes be pen pals, hers in New York, mine in Texas. What fun we all had that year! I can still hear Mary Jo saying, “Jean, maybe our students will get us on Oprah!!” Of course that never happened. Mary Jo had a wonderful sense of humor and was everything that has been written about her and more. Such a loves, but a very gifted, caring person and sister-in-law.
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Eileen Cowley posted a condolence
Monday, October 4, 2021
Years ago I was a Paul Road School parent and substitute teacher. I remember Mary Jo as a caring teacher. Please accept my sympathies.
Eileen Cowley
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Eileen Cowley Posted Oct 7, 2021 at 5:13 PM
A memory of Mary Jo. Because of the dreadful ice storm of ‘91 we had school on Good Friday to make up lost days. She remarked that morning: Maybe I’ll try to get the class to “keep silence “ from noon to three.” We laughed remembering what an effort that had been as youngsters ourselves.
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The family of Mary Jo Ellingham uploaded a photo
Sunday, October 3, 2021
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Sheila Frost Furr posted a condolence
Sunday, October 3, 2021
Mary-Jo and I grew up together in the best of times in our wonderful Lincoln Avenue neighborhood in Le Roy. We were next door neighbors for so many years. Wow the memories! We were blessed, for sure. I am so sorry for your loss, to her husband, John, siblings Pat, Bill, Mike and Margie. We are sure to meet again, with our love and memories to share! Sheila.
I just finished reading all the WONDERFUL comments about Mary-Jo's kindness and dedication to teaching and her students. Being a retired. teacher myself, I can say nothing means more to you than the love and respect of your students and rejoicing in their accomplishments. Thank you for sharing this love, respect and forever memories of your dear and dedicated teacher!
Sheila Frost Furr
A Memorial Tree was planted for Mary Jo Ellingham
Saturday, October 2, 2021
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc.
P0 Box 187, 8700 Lake Road
LeRoy, New York, 14482
Phone: (585) 768-2400
Fax: (585) 768-2401