Mary Ellen Johnson (Shafer)

Rochester: Passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, at the age of 76.

Mary was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Eunice Shafer, and her sisters, Carol and Paula; her pets Missy and Bella.

She is survived by her daughters, Katrina Tartaglia and Kimberly Johnson; her grandchildren, Megan Brown, Marissa Brown, Payton Heald, and Zach Johnson; her great-grandchildren, Gabriel Heald, Eldin Hamzic, Adelina Mazza, Landon Mazza, Elianna Prince, Leilani Prince, and Kailah Vaughn; her brother, Robert Shafer; her sister, Donna Shafer; her nieces, Renee Shafer, Shane Shafer, and Samantha Smith; nephew, David Smith; as well as many dear friends.

Mary will be remembered as a loving, strong-willed woman with a generous heart. She was known for the delicious meals she prepared, especially her homemade sauce, and for the unconditional love she shared with her grandchildren. She brought laughter to those around her and created countless cherished memories with the people she loved.

Mary worked as a hairdresser and later spent many years as a waitress in the Rochester area, including at Howard Johnson’s, Carpanis, and other local restaurants. She touched the lives of many through her kindness, hard work, and warm personality.

Services and interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to her GoFundMe to assist the family with final expenses: https://gofund.me/c7fd62df8.