Carl Louis Marcellino
American politician, New York State Senator
Carl Louis Marcellino, a dedicated public servant and former New York State Senator, passed away on February 18, 2026, at the age of 83. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on December 23, 1942, and raised in Queens, Marcellino dedicated his life to education and public service, leaving a lasting impact on his community and the state of New York.
Before his distinguished political career, Marcellino was an esteemed educator. He earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science degree from New York University, further enhancing his academic credentials with a Professional Diploma in Administration and Supervision from St. John's University. For two decades, he served as a science teacher and administrator within the New York City school system, including a tenure as an assistant principal at Grover Cleveland High School.
Marcellino transitioned into politics, serving as the Oyster Bay Town Clerk for eight years, beginning in 1987. His commitment to public welfare led him to the New York State Senate, where he was first elected in a special election on March 14, 1995, to represent the 5th district. He served with distinction for 24 years until his defeat in 2018.
During his extensive tenure in the Senate, Marcellino became known as a champion of environmental legislation, authoring over 100 environmental laws. He chaired both the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee and the Senate Education Committee, demonstrating his broad legislative interests. Notably, he was instrumental in passing the nation's first ban on handheld cellphones while driving, a testament to his forward-thinking approach to public safety.
Marcellino also held the position of Majority Whip of the Senate Majority Conference, reflecting the respect and influence he commanded among his peers. His legislative efforts extended to securing critical school aid funding for Long Island students and preserving open spaces. He resided in Syosset, New York, with his wife, Patricia Marcellino, and was a devoted father to their two children, Jean and Carl.