Margaret Mary Ell was born to Andrew O’Neil and Agnes Duggan on February 3, 1948. She was the second of four daughters in the O’Neil household. As a child and an adult, Margaret became known as Peggy.

She grew up in Maplewood and attended Our Lady of Sorrows Elementary School in South Orange. Peggy then attended Archbishop Walsh High School in Irvington. Following graduation, Peggy received a BA from the College of St. Elizabeth and an MA from Georgian Court University in Computer Technology.

Throughout her professional life, Peggy was a teacher in various school districts, particularly in Clifton Avenue Elementary School in Lakewood. There she introduced teachers and students to the benefits of technology in education. Following Peggy’s marriage to Henry Ell, they raised two sons: Brendan and Chrisotpher both of Toms River. Chris is married to Heather

Peggy is survived by the following family members: Brother-in-law Doug Davis of Toms River and nephew Matt Davis, Sister Maureen O’Neil of San Franciso, and niece, Bridget and nephew Riley. Sister Eileen McCullion of Toms River and her nephew Michael McCullion and his wife Lauren of Bayville as well as grandniece Megan and grandnephew Jack. Nephew Timothy McCullion of Philadelphia and his dear friend Vanessa Martin.

Following retirement, Peggy volunteered for Caregivers of Ocean County and her High School Alumni Association. Peggy was also a member of the NJ Retirees Education Association. Peggy possessed a lively and energetic personality whose smile could light up a room. She will be truly missed by her family, friends and colleagues.

Visitation will be held at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River, NJ 08753, US, on April 16, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Mass will be held at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 685 Hooper Ave, Toms River, NJ 08753, US, on April 17, 2026, at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, Peggy’s family has requested donations to the Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org