MaryEllen Patterson Boyce
May 26, 1960 – June 19, 2025
MaryEllen Patterson Boyce, beloved wife, stepmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, at the age of 65. Her life was a vibrant blend of laughter, style, resilience, and heart—a spirit impossible to forget and forever cherished.
Born on May 26, 1960, in Brooklyn, NY, MaryEllen was the treasured daughter of Dorothy Greany and Kenneth Smith Sr. Proud of her Brooklyn roots, she carried that borough’s signature energy and passion into every chapter of her life. She eventually made her home in Staten Island, NY, with her loving husband of 23 years Kevin Boyce, where together they created a life rich in love, community, and unforgettable memories.
MaryEllen worked as a buyer in New York City’s fashion industry, a role she took pride in and genuinely loved. Her sharp eye for style was only matched by her magnetic personality and ability to make any room feel lighter and more joyful. Whether she was dancing to disco music, singing along to her beloved Cher, or enjoying a night out with friends, MaryEllen embodied celebration and connection.
She was a devoted stepmother to Patrick Boyce and his wife Nicole of Denville, NJ. She embraced family with open arms, holding deep love for her late sibling Byron Patterson, and for Kenny Smith, Tommy Smith, Donna DeRosa-Flannery, and Joey DeRosa. She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews and shared close bonds with friends and extended family from both Staten Island and Brooklyn.
MaryEllen also held a special place in her heart for her cat and dog, Smokey and Chewie. Those who knew her best are certain she’s now reunited with them—tails wagging, hearts full.
Among her many joys was cheering on the New York Jets, especially alongside Kevin and the Bennett’s crew, turning game days into cherished traditions. Her sense of humor, warmth, and infectious spirit made her the kind of person you never forgot. To know her was to laugh, to feel seen, and to experience life a little more fully.
MaryEllen leaves behind a world better for having had her in it. Her impact lives on in the stories we tell, the music she loved, and the countless lives she touched.
A celebration of MaryEllen’s life will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor her by playing your favorite disco song, dancing without hesitation, and sharing laughter with those you love.
Rest in peace, MaryEllen. Your joy, kindness, and bold spirit will live on in all of us.
Service
Viewing
Cherubini McInerney Funeral Home
1289 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
4:00pm - 8:00pm
Blessing
Cherubini McInerney Funeral Home
1289 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10302
Tuesday, June 24, 20257:30pm
Private Cremation
Denise Shevlin says
All my thoughts and prayers. MaryEllen was always a joy to be around, her great laugh and smile, her easy going personality. Her love for Kevin and all of her family. Her love for her extended family from Bennett”s, her fellow Jets fans, and everyone in-between.
May God hold you in the palm or his hands until we meet again!
Millie Del Negro says
My sincere condolences to learn of the passing of Maryellen.
She has left this world for a much more beautiful, tranquil place .
May she rest in eternal peace.
Mildred
Paulie O’Halloran says
You were a friend —your laugh, your kindness, the way you made everyone feel seen.
I’ll never forget our moments, the quiet ones and the loud ones, all etched in me forever. I’m grateful for knowing you. I’ll carry you with me always, until we meet again.
Marge Romano says
Maryellen was a very fun, loving, kind person who was a pleasure to be around. I remember being together with our moms at Coney Island.
My condolence to Kevin and your family and friends at this very sad time.
Maryellen Rest in Peace. 🙏
Marge
mark kiely says
Condolences to Kevin and family’s. Lots of beautiful memories of our time in new York with mary ellen and Kevin. Such a beautiful person..May she rest in peace..mark and Jackie x