Mary Ellen Radziemski

Mary Ellen Radziemski, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Born Mary Ellen Bacon on January 26, 1945, she grew up in Hillsborough, North Carolina, where her early life was marked by academic distinction and a natural gift for expression. At Orange High School, Mary Ellen's participated in oratorical contests, earning her numerous awards that celebrated her voice and passion.

She pursued higher education with dedication at the University of North Carolina, where she earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. These accomplishments laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to nurturing young minds.

Mary Ellen devoted 32 years to Washington State University, where she worked tirelessly at the Child Development Center. Her expertise and compassionate leadership culminated in her becoming the center’s director prior to her retirement. Throughout her career, Mary Ellen touched countless lives, fostering a caring environment where children could grow, learn, and thrive.

Beyond her professional life, Mary Ellen was a woman of deep warmth and vibrant interests. Together with her husband Tim, whom she married on March 26, 1994, she embraced the beauty of the outdoors. They spent many memorable times camping along the Selway River and Marble Creek, creating treasured traditions filled with laughter and friendship. Mary Ellen’s creativity found expression in her love for sewing and needlepoint, crafts she cherished deeply.

The heart of her joy was always found in family. She delighted in spending time with those dearest to her, especially in the kitchen cooking alongside her granddaughter Jade — moments that wove memories of love and learning across generations.

Mary Ellen is survived by her devoted husband, Tim, of Moscow, Idaho; her loving sister, Ann Hollowell, of Hillsborough, North Carolina; her children Michael and Rebecca Ellsworth; her grandchildren Jade and Kohl Ellsworth; and her great-granddaughter Ava. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Bacon, and her sister Jeanne Bacon Johnson, whose memories remain a cherished part of her story.

Mary Ellen Radziemski’s legacy is one of profound dedication—to family, to education, and to the simple yet enduring joys of life. She leaves behind a world better and brighter because of her presence, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know and love her.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.