Mary Ellen Gahan

Mary Ellen Gahan, 85, a lifelong Utican, passed away peacefully, with loving family by her side, August 31, 2024, at the Masonic Care Community.

Mary was born in Utica, February 10, 1939, a daughter of the late Lyle and Rosalie (Filipelli) Chandler. She was raised and educated locally and later attended cosmetology school.

Mary Ellen was a beautician by trade for over 54 years and owned and operated Mary Ellen’s Beauty Salon. She was a loving mother and grandmother, who was famous for her Christmas cookies and home cooked Italian meals. Throughout the years, Mary enjoyed bowling in the area and local leagues. Although it took several years for her son to convince her, Mary became an avid Yankees fan and enjoyed watching the games and rooting for her favorite team.

She is survived by her children, Daniel Gahan of South Carolina, Debra and Michael Brigano of Utica, and Susan and Michael Mastropietro of West Virginia; five grandchildren, three great grandchildren, brothers and sisters-in-law, Lyle Jr. and Karlee Chandler, Sam and Sheila Chandler, and George and Debbie Chandler; sister and brother-in-law, Rosalie and Antonio DeSantis; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mary was predeceased by her sister, Maria Chrystie; and brother, Butch Chandler.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger St., corner of Mohawk St., Utica. There will be a prayer service at the conclusion of calling hours.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Masonic Care Community, for their loving compassion shown to Mary Ellen during her years at the Masonic Home as well as the staff at Wynn Hospital for their care and going above and beyond for Mary.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Mary Ellen, a donation can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital by going to stjude.org or can be made in person at calling hours where envelopes will be available.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Ellen Gahan, please visit our floral store.