She dedicated her life to family and community
It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude that we announce the passing of Mary Ellen (O’Donnell) Carabineris, who departed this life peacefully on July 10, 2026, just days shy of her 88th birthday. Mary Ellen was born on July 16, 1938, in Chelsea, to the late John P. and Mary A. (Zuben) O’Donnell.
Mary Ellen dedicated her life to her family and community. A devoted mother, she raised her four sons in Everett, where her love, warmth, and guidance nurtured their growth. She shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, James Carabineris, creating a life filled with joy and adventure, from summers spent in Naples, Maine, to winters in Zephyrhills, Florida.
Professionally, Mary Ellen made her mark as a Credit Office Manager in the foodservice distribution industry, beginning with Monarch Foods in Everett, before moving on to Rykoff-Sexton in Norwood and ultimately retiring from Cognos, a computer software company, after a fulfilling career that lasted over three decades.
A faithful member of Freedom Hill Community Church in Malden, Mary Ellen was known for her unwavering commitment to service. She played a significant role in the church’s building fund, taught Sunday School, and provided essential support to newly arriving immigrants, exemplifying her incredible compassion and dedication to helping others.
Mary Ellen is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, James A. Carabineris, her sons, Edward Jankowski and his wife, Susan of Billerica, Francis “Frank” Jankowski and his companion, Jill Koslouski of Chelsea, John Jankowski and his wife, Kathleen of Middleborough, in addition to Susan Ferrante and her husband, Pasquale of Gilford, NH, and James Carabineris, Jr. of Malden. She was predeceased by her son, James Jankowski.
She was also cherished as a sister to John E. O’Donnell, and the late James F. O’Donnell, Elaine M. Vinci, and Patricia Hansford. Mary Ellen leaves behind a legacy of love as a grandmother to nine grandchildren: Samantha Carmen, Edward Jankowski, Jr., Clare, Caileen, and Rebecca Jankowski, Pasquale Ferrante Jr., Christine Boudreau, Lydia, and Julia Masse, and as a great-grandmother to three: Anton Fortunato, River, and Lily Boudreau.
Visiting hours for Mary Ellen will be held today, Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Welsh Funeral Home, located at 718 Broadway, Chelsea. Celebrating her life, family and friends are invited to honor and remember Mary Ellen’s remarkable journey and the countless lives she touched.
Mary Ellen Carabineris will be remembered not only for her unwavering devotion to family and faith but also for her ability to bring joy, laughter, and compassion to all who knew her. As we gather to celebrate her life, we will carry her spirit in our hearts, forever grateful for the love she shared with us all.