Mary Ellen Nettleton

Mary Ellen Nettleton died peacefully on July 19, 2026, at the age of 93 in her home in Addison, Illinois surrounded by her loving family. Born in Chicago, Illinois on February 8th, 1933, to Marshall and Alice (Shea) McGrath, Mary Ellen lived with her parents and grandparents, Tillie and Christopher McGrath and her beloved sister Barbara on Long Avenue. She was a graduate of St. Peter Canisius Grade School and Sienna High School. She met the love of her life, Jack Nettleton in High School and upon meeting he asked if she could type. This was the start of their love story. Mary Ellen and Jack were married on June 20th, 1953, and were partners at home and in work for 57 years. Together they raised 6 children, Mary Kay (Bill) Leonetti, Dr. Margaret Nettleton, John Nettleton, deceased (Jill), William Nettleton, deceased, Elizabeth (Robert) Moore and Charles (Colleen) Nettleton. Mary Ellen was a beloved grandmother to Patrick (Jenny), Katie, Sarah Leonetti (Michael Hartman), Brian (Theresa), Matthew (Kim Gardner), William (Ashley), and Sean (Caitlin) Nettleton, Brian and John Moore, Emily (Kevin Stapleton), Madeline, Jack and Tommy Nettleton. She was a great grandmother (Gigi) to Jamesby and Will Leonetti, Sage, Anton, Skye, and Liam Nettleton, Finnegan and Theo Hartman, Aiden Nettleton, and Ciara and Aine Nettleton. They spent the rest of their married life traveling, cooking, and working side by side while building and running their business together. Through every adventure and every challenge, they remained devoted partners, sharing a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. Mary Ellen was a fabulous cook, a sharp bridge player, an avid needle pointer, and a devoted reader. Fiercely independent, she embraced new experiences and was always planning her next adventure, right up until the end of her life. Perfectly dressed for every occasion, she was effortlessly chic and carried herself with grace and style. Mary Ellen shared an extraordinary bond with her sister, Barbara Dolan. From childhood through every stage of life, they supported one another with unwavering love, loyalty, and laughter. Affectionately known as the "TeeHee Sisters," they taught their families the true meaning of togetherness—lifting each other up through every twist and turn life brought while always finding something to laugh about together. Their lifelong friendship was a beautiful example of the strength, joy, and unconditional love that only sisters can share. Family and friends will meet Thursday, July 23rd, at Saint Giles Church, 1045 Columbian Avenue, Oak Park for a Visitation from 9:30 a.m. until the Celebration of a Mass of Christian Burial, 10:30 a.m. Interment private. Arrangements entrusted to The Oaks Funeral Home 630-250-8588 or oaksfh.com In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Catholic Charities.