Margaret Mary Engel Jellenik

Margaret Mary Engel Jellenik, 84, of Terrell, North Carolina, formerly of Long Island, New York, passed away on October 31, 2026. Born in Valley Stream, New York, to the late John Peter Engel and Mary Margaret Engel, Margaret lived a life defined by love, dedication, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, Stephen R. Jellenik. 

Margaret was a proud young mother of four children with her first husband, William, starting a local carpentry & home building business for over 13 years. Her home became affectionately known as the neighborhood's "Kool-Aid House," a place where all the neighborhood children were welcomed.

The family grew when she married her husband, Stephen, and his two children joined the family. In 1988, she founded Medical Data Resources, Inc., a successful medical billing company that she proudly built and operated for more than 30 years. Through her dedication to her business, her clients, and her staff, Margaret quietly made a difference in countless lives, often behind the scenes and always with heartfelt generosity.

Margaret graduated from West Islip High School and later in life returned to pursue her education, earning her bachelor's degree from SUNY Empire State College. She enjoyed life's special pleasures, including trips to New York City for Broadway theatre, orchestra, shopping, and fine dining. Margaret treasured vacations with friends to Paradise Island in the Bahamas and Bermuda. She also loved singing in community theatre, cheering on her beloved New York Yankees and later watching NASCAR races when she retired to North Carolina.

She is survived by her children, Mary Forgione (David), Debra Jellenik-Halloran (Mark), Patricia Malyszko (Michael), William Longboat III, David Longboat (Lisa), and Glenn Jellenik (Cathy); as well as nine beloved grandchildren: Joshua, Elliana, Sara, Isabel, Alexander, Hannah, Emma, Nathaniel, and Isaiah. She is also survived by her siblings, Barbara Scianna (Frank), John P. Engel Jr. (Kay), and Deborah Holmes (Derek), along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Margaret's legacy is one of family, generosity, perseverance, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time. Please check back for more details.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Margaret's memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home & Cremation Services is caring for the Jellenik family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.KepnerFH.com