Mary Ellen (Sherwood) Vanderbilt

Wharton:  It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Ellen Vanderbilt, beloved daughter, sister, mother, and friend, who left us on March 24, 2025, at St. Clare's Hospital/Dover General. Born to the late Robert J. Sherwood and Margaret Glennon in Denville and a lifelong resident of Wharton, Mary Ellen was a cherished member of her community and a guiding light to all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Morris Hills High School, class of 1978, Mary Ellen dedicated her professional life to serving others. She worked at Beneficial Life Insurance Company in IT Support and Administration from 1980 to 1999, where her expertise and kindness made a lasting impact. Following that, she brought her talents to Century 21/Christel Realty of Rockaway from 1999 to 2008, and briefly served as a switchboard operator at St. Clare's Hospital/Dover General before her retirement.

Mary Ellen was a devoted parishioner of St. Mary's Church in Wharton, where she found joy and solace in her faith. She had a passion for music that filled her home with warmth and happiness, and she delighted in watching Hallmark movies, often sharing these moments with her family. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her loved ones, especially her daughter, Jessie Anne Vanderbilt, and her daughter-in-law, Sam Vanderbilt. Mary Ellen's beloved cat, Gizmo, was also a cherished companion, bringing her comfort and joy.

Mary Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Terry, in 2023, and her brothers, Patrick and Thomas. She is survived by her siblings, Michael, Daniel, Matthew, Theresa Schantz, and Anne Sherwood, as well as many nieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 PM on Friday, March 28th, at the Bermingham Funeral Home, 216 S. Main St., Wharton.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 AM on Saturday at St. Mary's Church, Wharton, followed by interment in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hurd St., Mine Hill.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Mary's Church or a charity of your choice in Mary Ellen's memory, honoring her spirit of generosity and love for her community.

Mary Ellen Vanderbilt will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

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