Mary Ellen (Deegan) Clark

Mary Ellen Clark, affectionately known by many as “Bam,” 91, of Milltown, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, in Toms River, New Jersey.

Mary Ellen was predeceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, Lester “Chip” Clark, in 2018; her brothers, Brian and John Deegan; and her grandchildren, Jillian and Ryan O’Connor.

An active member of her community, Bam was a devoted communicant of Our Lady of Lourdes Church and a proud member of the Rosary Society, Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and Milltown Senior Center. She greatly enjoyed her retirement traveling with Chip, especially visiting friends and family all across the country, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Known for her love of all things chocolate, especially ice cream, Bam was notorious for sneaking her great-grandkids extra treats. She was also a master organizer, always keeping everything (and everyone) in order.

Mary Ellen is survived by her daughters Mary Kim Clark and Judith O’Connor, and son-in-law, Tim. She was a devoted grandmother to Kait Burke and her husband, Ian Gomes; Sean O’Connor and his wife, Nicole; and Kyle O’Connor. Bam was a proud great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many friends, neighbors, and loved ones, including the many grandchildren she “adopted” as her own. Bam will be missed and remembered forever but she is now reunited with Chip who was undoubtedly waiting for her with a warm cup of decaf and a handwritten note on a paper towel.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Bronson and McNamara Memorial Home of Milltown. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, followed by entombment at Holy Cross Burial Park, Jamesburg, New Jersey.

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