Mary Ellen Bordner

Mary Ellen Bordner, born December 24, 1928, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, surrounded by her loving family. She was 97 years old.

She graduated from McCaskey High School in Lancaster, PA, where she laid the foundation for a life marked by warmth, resilience, and joy. After high school, she met the love of her life, Richard Jerome Bordner (“Jere”), and the two were married on February 24,1950, beginning a devoted partnership that shaped the rest of her life.

Throughout their marriage, Mary Ellen and Jere made homes in Pennsylvania, Florida, New Jersey, Illinois and Delaware, raising their four children and building lifelong friendships along the way. Known for her beauty, infectious laughter, and sharp sense of humor, Mary Ellen combined grace with strength in everything she did.

She was an active member of the United States Tennis Association, where she captained multiple teams, and she was an avid and accomplished bridge player. Whether on the tennis court or around a bridge table, Mary Ellen brought enthusiasm, competitiveness, and joy, forming deep connections.

Above all else, Mary Ellen was a devoted wife, a loving mother to her children, a proud grandmother to eleven grandchildren, and a cherished great‑grandmother to thirteen great‑grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she took immense pride in each generation. She was also a loyal and treasured friend, known for her kindness, encouragement, and ever‑present smile.

Mary Ellen is survived by her four children: Beth Alison Brannigan, Kris Bordner Carrig, Susan Long Whitaker and Michael Jerome Bordner, along with her grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and extended family, all of whom will carry forward her legacy of love and laughter.

Mary Ellen was predeceased by her parents, Edgar L. Long and Miriam Stradtman Long, her husband Jere and her five beloved siblings.

The family wishes to acknowledge and sincerely thank the many family members and friends who visited, called, and stayed in close contact with Mary Ellen during the later years of her life. There are no words sufficient to express the family’s gratitude for the love and support she received. Mary Ellen will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held privately with her family.