Maryellen DuFresne

Maryellen DuFresne September 26, 1951 - February 19, 2016 Maryellen DuFresne, 64, died unexpectedly on Friday, February 19, 2016 at Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine, Florida. Maryellen was born in Boonton, NJ, September 26, 1951, to Eugene Thomas and Elizabeth Carey. She married Bob DuFresne, in Boonton, in 1971, and they moved to St. Augustine in 1975. Although they later divorced, they always remained close. Maryellen spent many years working in St. Augustine’s healthcare community, where she touched the lives of many. Maryellen is preceded in death by her parents and by her brother, Eugene T. Carey, Jr, and by her mother and father in-law, Duffy and Rose DuFresne. She is survived by her children, Renee DuFresne Taylor (Donnie) of St. Augustine, Robby DuFresne of Atlanta, and by her beloved grandson, her “sunshine,” Coleman Robert Taylor of St. Augustine. Maryellen leaves behind many who will miss her immeasurably, sisters and brothers-in-law, Linda Schmidt, Ethel Carey, Donald DuFresne, Jeff and Debbie DuFresne, Ernie and Debbie DuFresne, Bev and Rich Sorrentino, Marykay and Rich Staver, and Bill Schmidt; nieces, nephews, and others whom lovingly called her “Aunt ME,” Denise DuFresne, Johnna Baxa, Kelly Verlatti, Jodi Warhanek, Nicole Wolfe, Morgan, Jessica, Shae and Avery DuFresne, Deirdre DuFresne, Parker DuFresne, Brooke Staver, Chantel Binegar, Patrick and Andrew Taylor, and Jeff Bryant. Maryellen’s kindness will be remembered by all who knew her; her compassion was limitless. She gave so much, always, to everyone. She dedicated her life to being a mother and grandmother, and she was a devoted sister. We all hope to have learned, from her selflessness, to be better, stronger, more forgiving, kinder. Family was of the utmost importance to Maryellen, and we all feel very fortunate to be part of a family that never lets go, and to have been loved by her. Maryellen will also be remembered for her love of animals, and we know there will be many waiting for her at the Rainbow Bridge. She will be especially missed by Belle, Sophie, Tommy and Gizmo. Memorial services will be held at 6 PM, Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at St. Johns Family Funeral Home. The family will receive guests beginning at 5 PM. Flowers will be gratefully accepted, as they made her smile, or those wishing may make a contribution in her memory to SAFE Pet Rescue of St. Augustine. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.