Mary Ellen Brown

life story

A lifetime of care to all.

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mary Ellen Brown, age 86. Mary Ellen lived a life full of compassion, service and love. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, and her legacy will live in the hearts of those who knew her.

Mary Ellen was a devoted wife to her husband of 64 years, Donald. She was a wonderful mother to her four children, Donald (Debora), Peg, John, Maureen (Dave) Boxrud and a loving grandmother to Megan and Molly Boxrud. A mother not only to her own, she opened her heart and home to everyone – from neighborhood kids to anyone in need of mothering.

Mary Ellen trained to be a nurse when her youngest started high school. She had a natural gift for caring and touched the lives of countless patients. Mary Ellen was an active volunteer in her community. She devoted her time to helping others through church groups, other organizations and most notably, the Red Cross. Through her efforts, January 2, 2026, marked the 50th blood drive at Corpus Christi since 2020.

A woman of strong faith, Mary Ellen loved and served God in every aspect of her life. Her belief in the power of love and kindness will continue to be a beacon for our actions.

Mary Ellen’s love for dogs, cats and other animals was well known, and she always made sure to spoil her furry and feathered friends. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life including her daily cup of coffee, donuts and begonias – things that always made her smile.

Above all, Mary Ellen loved people. Her warm spirit and forgiving heart made her a lantern of kindness and understanding to everyone she encountered. She believed in the power of forgiveness and always sought to see the best in others. She had a special way of making everyone feel loved and valued. Our wish is that others honor her legacy in that way.

Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Mary Georgevitch and her brother, Joe Georgevitch. In addition to her husband, children and grandchildren, she is survived by her sisters Peggy Georgevitch and Kathleen Debold.

A special thank you to the wonderful caregivers at Our Lady of Peace Hospice, St. John’s Hospital, and St. Anthony Park Homes.

A celebration of her life will be at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Roseville, MN on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9am followed by Mass at 10am. Lunch will follow in the Parish Center.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

January 20, 2026

Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church 2048 Hamline Ave N, St Paul, MN 55113, USA

Visitation 9:00am

Mass 10:00am

Lunch 11:00