Marian (Wilson) Zelesnik, of Fords, passed away in her home with family on Friday, March 7, 2025, at the age of 98.

Born in Bayonne, Marian moved to Fords in the mid 1950s, where she built a beautiful life with her husband, John F. Zelesnik, and their two daughters, Andrea and Doreen.

Marian pursued a new passion at the age of 50, earning her real estate license. She began her career at the Docs Agency and later worked with ReMax, Weichert, and finally, Coldwell Banker in Metuchen. With her warmth, charm, and gift for building lasting relationships, real estate was a perfect fit. Even into her mid-80s, she remained passionate about exploring neighborhoods, helping families find their perfect homes, and staying connected with the many friends she made along the way.

Marian was a constant source of energy and joy, never one to sit still. Whether she was cooking homemade meals for family and friends, serving as president of the Fords Women's Club, or simply striking up conversations wherever she went, she had a way of making everyone she met feel special.

One of her greatest joys was escaping to "Mah Island"—Long Beach Island—where she spent countless days at the family's summer home in Beach Haven. There, she found peace watching her beloved seagulls, reading the newspaper from her beach chair, and soaking in the sights, sounds, and salty breeze of the ocean while her four granddaughters splashed in the waves.

Marian was the daughter of the late Noreene (Burns) and Harry Wilson; and was predeceased by her husband of 68 years, John F. Zelesnik, in 2017.

Surviving are Marian's daughters: Andrea Jeffries of Cedar Run, NJ, and Doreen Abiraad (Michel) of Beirut, Lebanon; four granddaughters: Brianna and Brielle Jeffries, and Natalie (Elie) Safi and JoAnn (Joseph) Haddad; and great granddaughter Laura Safi and great grandson on the way Noah Haddad.

Her family will miss her dearly but finds comfort in knowing she is now reunited with her greatest love and best friend—her beloved "My John."

Relatives and friends are invited to visit Flynn and Son/Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave., Fords on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 from 2-4 pm & 7-9 pm. The funeral will commence at the funeral home, Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 10:00 am followed by a 10:30 am Funeral Liturgy at Our Lady of Peace Church, Fords. Cremation will take place privately.