Mary Ellen Rogan

Mary Ellen Rogan, aged 76, of East Brunswick, New Jersey, passed away on September 8, 2026. Born on April 29, 1950, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Chester and Muriel Waterhouse, she grew into an ambitious and dedicated woman with a passion for genealogy, books, and quilting.

Mary Ellen's professional life was just as vibrant as her persona. She began her career as a teacher and later worked at the New York Public Library. Her creativity and dedication led her to retire from there only to take on the role of Library Director at the Plainfield Public Library. Her love for books was evident through her work, and her supportive nature made her a pillar in her community.

Mary Ellen was a proud descendant of the Daughters of the American Revolution, tracing her ancestry back to those who came over on the Mayflower. Her interest in genealogy extended beyond her own lineage. She was an avid quilter, often incorporating her knowledge of family history into intricate designs. This passion for heritage was also reflected in her family life, where she was a dedicated mother and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Rogan, and her parents, Chester and Muriel Waterhouse. Mary Ellen was a loving mother to her children, Laura Velez, Susan Rogan Casey, Joe Rogan JR and a wonderful mother-in-law to Robert Casey and Michelle Rogan. She was a doting grandmother to Mia, Damian, and Jackson.

The wake will be held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at 3:00 PM EDT at the Bronson & McNamara Memorial Home, 152 North Main Street, Milltown, New Jersey, 08850. A funeral mass will follow on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11:30 AM EDT at St. Bartholomew Roman Catholic Church, 470 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick, New Jersey, 08816.

We encourage those who knew and loved Mary Ellen to leave memories and upload photos to the memorial page. Your tributes will serve as a comfort to the family and a testament to Mary Ellen's lasting impact in our hearts.