Mary Ellen Corrigan

Mary Ellen Corrigan

Rochester, New York

Passed away on, July 9, 2024 at the age of 92, four months after her beloved husband of 70 years, Richard (Dick)Corrigan Sr.

Predeceased by her parents, Theodore & Ann Thape; brother, Theodore Thape Jr.

She is survived by her children, John, Kevin (Gloria), Kathleen (Dion Doucet), Richard (Kelly) Jr., Thomas (Lori), Christopher (Sheila); numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins & best friend, Hennie Oschman.

A Mass will be held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 10:00AM at St. Marianne Cope Parish, Guardian Angel's Church, 2061 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY, 14623. Interment to follow at Pine Hill Cemetery, Rush Scottsville Road, Rush, NY, 14543.

Mary Ellen Corrigan, a beacon of love, resilience, and joy, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on May 28, 1932, Mary Ellen grew up during the Great Depression and World War II, shaping her into one of the last great generation of mothers— selfless, hardworking, and kind.

Mary Ellen graduated from Saint Agnes High School in June 1952. On October 2, 1954, she married the love of her life, Richard William Corrigan, embarking on a lifelong journey together that lasted for nearly 70 years. She is survived by her six beloved children and their spouses; John, Kevin (Gloria), Kathleen (Dion Doucet), Richard (Kelly) Jr., Thomas (Lori), and Christopher (Sheila). Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren; Shauna, Meagan, Erin, Riina, Mariel Ana, Anthony, Natalie, Rachel, Sheridan, Nolan, Patrick, Shawn, and many great-grandchildren.

Mary Ellen consistently saw the best in people, teaching her children the importance of empathy and understanding. Despite her large family, she would open their home to a less advantaged brother and sister in the Fresh Air program. And when people’s homes were flooded on Lake Ontario, she took her family to help fill sandbags. She always led by example. Thanksgiving was a special time for Mary Ellen, when she expressed her love through cooking, gathering her family year after year for a feast filled with warmth and laughter.

Her resourcefulness enabled her to stretch a budget like few others, often with the help of her flourishing vegetable garden. Her love for tending flowers brought beauty to her home and joy to her heart. A faithful member of Good Shepard Church, she found solace and community in her faith. Mary Ellen was an accomplished swimmer, having swam across Conesus Lake where her father built a cottage. Later, this inspired several of her children to join the Sperry High School swim team. She also had a passion for sailing, sharing early adventures with Richard on her Lightning class sailboat. Her commitment to fitness, especially her love for walking, kept her vibrant and energetic throughout her life. She had a special affinity for animals, especially the family dogs who she would take for long walks.

For over ten years, she served the Rush Henrietta school district as a beloved bus driver, known for her dedication and friendly demeanor. Her greatest love, was her family. Even on a budget, she always found a way to provide her children with opportunities to experience fun activities such as swimming and skiing.

Mary Ellen was a beautiful woman inside and out, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was a testament to love, kindness, and resilience. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, In Mary Ellen's memory, a donation may be made to The Alzheimer's Association of Rochester by clicking here ; local donations may be made over the phone: (800)272-3900
or to the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, Lollypop Farm, by clicking here .

To share a memory of Mary or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.