Mary Ellen Winston

Mary Ellen often said in her later years that she was boring and questioned why anyone would want to spend time with her. To that statement, anyone who knew her would, without hesitation, respond: Mary Ellen Winston was anything but boring! Her extraordinary life, boundless creativity, and vibrant personality left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

Mary Ellen Winston, born on October 20, 1935, in New York City to Abraham and Charlotte Solomon, peacefully passed away on December 10, 2024, in Purdys, New York, after a brief illness.

Mary Ellen was the matriarch of her family. She leaves behind her two loving sons, Michael Winston (Angela) and David Winston (Cynthia), whom she raised as a single mother while building her exciting career. Mary Ellen was also an inspiring grandmother to Evan, Stephen (Elizabeth), and Erica, who will carry forward her legacy of creativity, humor, and resilience. In addition, she is survived by her cherished brother Edward Solomon and his family, Lisa Graham (Alan), Karen Solomon and Bret Solomon (Emma).

Born in Manhattan, Mary Ellen loved her posh neighbor in the upper east side for more than half a century. Post covid, when her mobility was slightly declined, her son and his family looked after her and increasingly spent more time providing her with loving care and relaxing weekend getaways.

Mary Ellen spent her final months in Westchester County, living close to her eldest son and his family and forming new and loving friendships with a group fondly called “The Golden Girls.” Together, this team of women shared regular meals, sunny poolside afternoons, nightly cinema events, and lots of laughter that became a cherished part of her final chapter.

A woman of remarkable talents and endless energy, Mary Ellen’s career began as a singer. This chapter was short-lived, as Mary Ellen realized she rather be behind the camera, inspired by summers spent with her admired Aunt Anna, a decorator. Mary Ellen followed her creative instincts and became a celebrated costume designer for movies, commercials, and print, dressing some of the most famous celebrities of her time.

Her entrepreneurial spirit knew no bounds. She authored The New York Cabbie Cookbook and was in the process of creating several other works, including children’s books and memoirs about her adventures in the film industry. Earlier in her career, she also formed a prop business, renting out items for the productions she worked on, and pursued countless other creative endeavors that showcased her knack for innovation and business.

Mary Ellen earned her Bachelor of Arts from NYU and was deeply engaged with a wide variety of interests. She loved antiquing, gourmet foods, attending plays, concerts, and movies, and enjoyed escaping the hustle and bustle of the city to find peace by the ocean. Her love for the sea inspired her to design and build a home in the Hamptons, which she enjoyed surrounded by her family and friends.

A true Manhattanite at heart, she embraced everything the city had to offer: high fashion, Broadway, and a lively nightlife. Her passion for learning and culture was evident through her involvement in the Dutch Treat Club, the Directors Guild, Asia Society and classes at the Italian Consulate, where she explored Italian cooking and culture.

Even in her later years, Mary Ellen’s vivaciousness and business sense touched lives. Just recently, she connected one of her dear friends with a residential facility, helping them secure a music gig for their event nights. Her appreciation for the arts and zest for life influenced her family, friends, and everyone who crossed her path.

Mary Ellen Winston’s life will be celebrated at the Riverside Memorial Chapel in Hawthorne, N.Y.. She was an amazing woman with many facets—a brilliant creative force, a family matriarch, and a cherished friend to many. Her energy, sense of humor, and boundless heart will be deeply missed,her spirit is alive inside of us and our children. That her love of the arts, culture, travel and knowledge inspires us.

Her creativity and hard work allowed us to become what we are today. She had a timeless style and always looked elegant. She made us very proud to be her sons. Her legacy will live on in all who knew and loved her.