Mary Ellen Lepelis, 83, of Ringoes, New Jersey passed away on Thursday March 12, 2026 at Ciel Senior Living of Princeton, surrounded by loved ones.

Mary Ellen was born on June 24, 1942 in Trenton, NJ to parents Henry and Mary Rabatie. Mary Ellen graduated from Cathedral High School in Trenton NJ in 1960. She was always an excellent student. She was able to fulfill her longtime dream of attending college. She earned a Bachelor of Business degree from Trenton State College, as an adult while raising her children. She worked for a variety of companies during her working years. She enjoyed positions at the General Adjustment Bureau, Pathmark, Weichert Realty, and US Travel. The part she loved most about each of these workplaces was the lifetime friends that she made.

Mary Ellen will be remembered for her sassy personality, sharp wit, her thirst for knowledge, generous spirit, and her love of animals. Throughout her lifetime she loved and cared for many people and animals in need. She could often be found reading a book, enjoying the daily crossword puzzle, and spending quiet hours watching the wildlife in her backyard.

Mary Ellen was predeceased by her parents, Henry V and Mary Rabatie. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, A. Edward Lepelis, daughters Janis and Linda Lepelis, sister Dorothy Rabatie Meyers, cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and many grand nieces and nephews.

Mary Ellen’s funeral services and family remembrances will be held on Thursday March 19, 2026 at the Kingston and Kemp Funeral Home, 260 White Horse Avenue, Hamilton, NJ 08610.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 11–1 pm, with funeral services from 1–1:30 pm.

As a nod to Mary Ellen’s love of sequins and sparkly outfits, her family would like to encourage everyone attending to wear something colorful.

Flowers are welcome, and those wishing to honor Mary Ellen’s memory may also consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Marty Place Senior Dog Sanctuary (Marty’s Place.org).