Marylou Kelly Streznewski, a distinguished writer and educator originally from Trenton, NJ, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, at the age of 91, at Schuyler Ridge nursing facility in Clifton Park, NY. She was born in 1934 to William and Hedwig Kelly and earned a bachelor’s degree in education before teaching English for 25 years, simultaneously pursuing a master’s degree from The College of New Jersey.
Marylou’s legacy is deeply rooted in Bucks County, PA, where she met her husband Thomas J. Streznewski in 1957, raising their four children and becoming an acclaimed writer across poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and journalism. Her published works include four poetry chapbooks, a full-length poetry collection, a study on gifted adults, and a memoir detailing her recovery from open-heart surgery using integrative medicine. She also contributed significantly to the local community through teaching writing and roles at The Bucks County Journal.
Known for her eclectic talents, Marylou was a long-time member of the International Women’s Writing Guild and the Delaware Valley poetry community, earning recognition like the Muse Award. She cherished writing, teaching, gardening, and time with her family. She is survived by her sister and preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sister.