Mary Ellen Wayne

Mary Ellen Wayne, 82, of Hyde Park, New York, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at her home, with her family by her side.

Born on June 13, 1944, in Poughkeepsie, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Gaffney and Kathleen Bowe Gaffney.

On July 2, 1966, at St. Peter's Church in Poughkeepsie, she married Richard Wayne Sr., who survives at home. Together, they shared 60 years of marriage.

Throughout her life, Mary Ellen held several positions that reflected her hardworking nature and love of people. She worked as a waitress at Michael's Restaurant in Hyde Park, served as an office manager for Cleveland Plumbing, and worked as a home health aide. She particularly enjoyed her time caring for Jean, a role that allowed her to help others.

The holidays held a particularly special place in Mary Ellen's heart. She loved every holiday and took great pride in decorating her home. In her free time she loved visiting the casino, attending horse races in Saratoga, and spending many memorable vacations in Aruba. She also had a special fondness for chocolate.

Mary Ellen was also active parishioner of St. Peter's Church in Poughkeepsie

Above all else, Mary Ellen's greatest pride and joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She was their biggest supporter and most devoted cheerleader, making it her personal mission to attend every sporting event, dance recital, and special occasion she could. She treasured the time spent teaching them the things she enjoyed to do such as sewing, knitting, and cooking.

In addition to her loving husband, Mary Ellen is survived by her four sons, Thomas Wayne and his wife, Hayley; Stephen Wayne and his wife, Matilde; Matthew Wayne and his wife, Melissa; and Richard "Richie" Wayne Jr. and his wife, Maria; eight cherished grandchildren, Sarah, Sophia, Olivia, Mary, Ava, Giulia, Gabriella, and Giovanni.

She is also survived by her siblings, Richard Gaffney, Kathleen Patinski, and sister in law, Doreen Wallace.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings, Thomas "Bud" Gaffney, John Gaffney, Sue Fowx and her sister in law Sandra Vana.

Calling hours will be from 4pm to 7pm on Thursday October 29th at Sweet's Funeral Home, Route 9, Hyde Park.

A funeral service will take place on Friday October 30th at 10am at Sweet's Funeral Home, Route 9 Hyde Park.

Burial will follow in the family plot at St. Peter's Cemetery, Poughkeepsie.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Route 9, Hyde Park.