Mary Ellen Wilcox

Mary Ellen Wilcox, 84, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. Born on April 24, 1941 to Sylvester and Catherine (McManaman) Nealon in Niskayuna, NY. Mary Ellen was a devout wife for over 47 years and a fierce mother to 5 women. Passionate about all things herbal, she crafted meals and teas using her own plants and secret family recipes.

She was an operator for New York Telephone in her early career and then a Secretary for the Town of Glenville Building Inspector.

Following her entrepreneurial spirit, she founded South Ridge Treasures in 1987 and shared her passion for herbs with many.

A quilter, she enjoyed the meticulous art of cutting and sewing, she loved traditional and original patterns.

Mary Ellen enjoyed friendships and worship at St. Margaret's Church and was an avid music lover. She sang in the church choir for many years, and participated in many different choral performances.

Mary Ellen is predeceased by her loving husband, Frank "Skip" Wilcox, Stepsons Frank "Dave" and Dane Wilcox, her parents, Sylvester and Catherine, her brother, Bernard "Bernie" Nealon and her Nephew Brian Nealon.

She leaves behind her daughters Michele (Vincent) Quatroche, Karen Jean (Robert) Gourley, Kelly Burke- Leaper, Rachel (Sam) Pollard, and Darla (David) Bills; grandchildren Vincent (Kara) Quatroche, Brent (Leah) Bills, Patrick (Amanda) Wilcox, Devin Burke Dinsmore, Jacob Leaper, Matthew Leaper, Cat (Josh) Dickey, Boni Quatroche, Robert Gourley, Evangeline Pollard and great-grandchildren Francine, Fiona and James.

She also leaves behind her beloved sisters-in-law Sandie Nealon and Catherine Wilcox Dean Smith and their families along with many cherished Nealon cousins.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday at 10:30 A.M. at St. Margaret's of Cortona Church with burial to follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Schenectady and a celebration of life immediately following at the Clinton's Ditch in Schenectady. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

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