Obituary of Mary Ellen Hunt

Mary Ellen Hunt, 64, of Glen Spey, NY passed away surrounded by family and her good friend, Eileen Kean, on Friday, June 23, 2023 at Garnet Hospital in Middletown.
 

Mary was born on December 18, 1958 in Port Jervis, NY to the late Donald and Florence Hunt. She graduated from Eldred High School and lived in Arizona and Pennsylvania, before settling back in her hometown of Glen Spey, NY.
 

Mary eventually met and married her best friend and forever soulmate, James (Jimbo) Rowe. On October 14, 1988, she gave birth to their only child, Brandee Nicole Rowe. They built a beautiful home together on Rio Dam Road. During this time, Mary was the owner of Tigress Tan and Nail Salon on Front Street in Port Jervis, NY. She managed this successful business and met many lifelong friends here. Although the marriage between Mary and Jim eventually dissolved, they always remained close. Mary was devastated when Jim passed away on January 19, 2021. Then on April 1, 2023, she lost her precious daughter, Brandee.

Despite her losses, Mary continued to fight for her health. She fought to the bitter end and finally let go to be reunited with Jim, Brandee, her loving parents, and countless animals that she loved and lost throughout life, including her dog, Lola.

Mary spent much of her life as a bartender and waitress at restaurants including The Eldred Preserve, The Mohegan, and Hennings. Prior to her retirement two years ago, she also worked for Orange and Rockland. 

Mary was loved by everyone. Throughout her life, she made many friends, who became like family to her. All of Mary’s friends and family are heartbroken and devastated by her passing, but find comfort knowing she is at peace and reunited with her loved ones in heaven. 
 

Mary had a way of making everyone feel special. She was kind, giving, selfless, and devoted to her family and friends. She had a passion for making others feel important and valued. It didn’t matter what she had or at times didn’t have, she was going to make sure her loved ones were taken care of.
 

She loved exercise, yoga, and meditation. She enjoyed spending time with her bird of 28 years, Petey. Mary also enjoyed sitting on her porch, which overlooks the pond, enjoying nature and watching her father’s koi fish. 
 

Mary is one of seven children born to the late Donald and Florence Hunt. She is survived by a very close-knit family which includes her siblings and their spouses: Beverly Wagner and husband Greg; Joseph Hunt and his wife, Debbie; Nancy Benedict; Louise Howard, Donald Hunt and his girlfriend Paula, and Patricia DeStefano and her husband Mike. Mary leaves behind several nieces and nephews, all who adored their beloved “Aunt Mary/Aunt Meme.” She also leaves behind multiple cousins she grew up with, that were always close to her heart. Mary has also always remained close with her sister-in-law, Lisa Lenz, who survives her, as well. In addition to her ex-husband and daughter, Mary was also predeceased by her brother-in-law’s, whom she cherished: Craig Benedict; Dennis Howard; and Robert “Del” Del Priore. 
 

Mary's family and closest friends are invited to Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home 154 East Main Street, Port Jervis, NY for a gathering from 12 Noon to 1:00PM on Thursday 6/29.  A memorial service will commence at 1:00PM with the Rev. Nancy Vonderhorst officiating. 
 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Port Jervis-Deerpark Humane Society, the Pike County Humane Society, Milford PA, Pets Alive, Middletown, NY or any animal shelter of your choosing.

Please make use of the Tribute Wall by leaving a memory or condolence for the family.