It is with profound sadness that the family of Mary Elizabeth “Penny” Yates née Kelly, announces her peaceful passing April 4, 2025, at the age of 81. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother.
Born Sept. 14, 1943, in Jersey City, Penny was known for her unwavering strength and her boundless love for her family.
She found joy in her years at the Glen Ridge Country Club, where she met and had her first date with Don, with whom she would eventually share a 58-year marriage. Don and Penny were longtime residents of Glen Ridge, where they raised their two children and lived for 32 years. During this time, Penny was an active member of The Junior League of Montclair.
She and Don eventually moved to their beach home at Normandy Beach and spent many years there with their children and grandchildren before settling down in Shrewsbury to be closer to family.
Penny was an avid reader, finding particular joy in presidential biographies and historical nonfiction. She loved to learn and never shied away from offering her wisdom and advice to those in need.
Penny leaves behind a legacy of kindness and warmth and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her husband Donald; her children, Christopher and Betsy (Richard) Schwartz; her grandchildren, Zachary, Thea, Madelyn and Liam; and her sisters and brother-in-law, Patricia Delaney and Valerie and Terry Shlimbaum.
A private family celebration of Penny’s life will be held. Memories and condolences may be shared at johnedayfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org in Penny’s memory.
The article originally appeared in the April 10 – 16, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
