Ellen Margaret (McGlyn) Solensky

Ellen Margaret McGlyn Solensky, 81, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026. She was at home, where she was most comfortable, surrounded by her loving family. Ellen was the wife of John (Jack) Solensky with whom she would’ve celebrated 60 years of marriage in May.

Raised in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, NY, Ellen relocated to Pennsylvania after marrying Jack. It was here, in Kennett Square, she raised her four children. Although she lived most of her life in PA, you would know right away that she was from Brooklyn! With her energetic wit and New York accent she always stood out and was loved for it.

In her younger years, Ellen had a successful career in retail, selling furniture, clothing and jewelry for various local businesses. She loved shopping and was always on the hunt for a great deal, either for herself or a beloved family member. Also a voracious reader, Ellen would read dozens of books a month and was well known by her friends at the Bayard Taylor (now Kennett) Library.
A huge Jimmy Buffett fan, Ellen owned every album. She enjoyed his tropical island melodies all her life, passing on her passion to many family members. Countless happy memories were made at the Jersey Shore. In their retirement years, Ellen and Jack took to traveling. They visited many national parks out west, and some here in the northeast. It was a dream come true to finally see the Grand Canyon with much gratitude for the opportunity.

Ellen loved people and especially adored her grandchildren. Her “ducklings” loved to visit and spend time talking with her about any and everything. Their unique gifts and accomplishments made her so proud. She was generous and kind, often taking them on trips to the mall or T.J. Maxx and buying whatever they asked for. She was also quick to offer wisdom on almost any topic (extending this even to her hospice nurses!). She will be greatly missed. …Yet we do not grieve as those without hope. We are comforted by the story in Luke 23:39-43 and encourage you to read
it.

Surviving besides her husband, Jack, are her four children: John Solensky and his wife Bonnie of Reading, PA, Matt Solensky and his wife Michelle of Jamestown, ND, Tom Solensky and his wife Christine of Lincoln University, PA, and Mariellen Barr and her husband Dave of Christiana, PA, 15 grandchildren, 4 great granddaughters, several nieces and one nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Helen McGlyn, one brother, Tom McGlyn, and her nephew, David McGlyn.

The family is grateful for the loving care Ellen received from Willow Tree Hospice, Home Instead and especially Dr. Kurt Schillinger of Chester County Cardiology Associates.

A memorial service will be held in the spring. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Kennett Library at the following link: https://kennettlibrary.org/donate/

Arrangements by Kuzo Funeral Home of Kennett Square, PA.