Obituary of Maria Francesca Maio (Pugliese)

Maria Francesca (Pugliese) Maio

A Beloved Matriarch

Maria Francesca (Pugliese) Maio, a loving mother, zia, comare, nonna, bis nonna and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, at the age of 93.

Born on April 19, 1931, in Cellara, Cosenza, Italy, Maria's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and boundless love. At the tender age of 16, she and her mother Adelina bravely embarked on a new journey, immigrating to Malartic, Quebec, Canada, where she embraced a new culture,  language and the father she never met with open arms.

A devout Catholic who studied at the convent in Paola, Italy, Maria's faith guided her life. She was a woman of remarkable strength and resilience, dedicating herself to helping others. Alongside her late husband, Gino, she welcomed countless immigrants to Canada, offering support and guidance as they navigated their new lives.Working alongside her husband Gino at the family store they would offer jobs to new, vibrant immigrants and their children.

Maria's love for her family was infinit. She cherished spending time with her children, Joe (Mala), Adela (Ken (deceased)), Mike (deceased), and MaryJean (Stephane). Her love for her grandchildren, Stephen, Maria, Natalie, Angela, Matteo and great-grandson, Colton, brought immense joy to her life.

Fashionista, talented seamstress and cook, Maria's culinary skills were legendary. Her homemade Italian dishes, from hearty pasta to delectable pastries, were always a source of comfort and celebration. Maria loved to celebrate Canada day by creating her special homemade vanilla cake with red and white icing topped with a strawberry canadian maple leaf. Maria was a lover of music, supporting her sons' over fifty year careers in the music industry. She loved to create dresses for her grandchildren on special occasions. She knitt baptism outfits for them so they would shine above all others.

Maria's warm and inviting nature made her home a gathering place for family and friends. She loved hosting gatherings, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. Her infectious laughter and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew her.

As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary woman, let us celebrate her life and the incredible legacy she leaves behind. Maria's spirit will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.

Visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home (South Chapel), 3048 Dougall Avenue (519-253-7236) on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Prayers Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.  Visitation will then continue at St Joseph Catholic Church - River Canard (9399 Townline Rd., Amherstburg) on Thursday, November 28, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Entombment to follow at Windsor Memorial Gardens 

All donations can be made to the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Condolences and memories can be shared online at www.windsorchapel.com

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