Marie M Mulherin

Marie passed peacefully in August, 2023, days before her 101st birthday, at her residence in Wilmington DE. Marie was born in Southern New Jersey, the daughter of the late Silvio and Livia Iocco Martelli, hard-working immigrants from Abruzzo region, Italy. Marie’s husband, Francis Mulherin, pre deceased her as well as daughter Frances P. Mulherin, brothers Rocco, Dindo, Arthur, Nichola Martelli, and sister Angelina Hocknell. She is survived by her son Robert Mulherin (Gina Lewin), two grandsons, numerous nephews and nieces, and many devoted friends.

Marie was devoted to her children and grandchildren, and her times with them were treasured. Her nieces and nephews were fond of time spent with her. One favorite thing was looking at old family photos together, reminiscing, learning more family history, and hearing about her shenanigans with her brothers and sisters growing up. Marie’s cherished friends also enjoyed spending time with her in conversation. She was full of kindness, wit, and wisdom. It was pure pleasure to spend time with her, times that will be missed but fondly remembered. Marie and her late sister Angie shared a bond throughout life that most people can only dream about having, one that their husbands said they knew better than to get into the middle of. Their impromptu “road trips” to malls and sales were legendary, as was their own special dialect of Italian. Their close relationship can be summed up by the observation of strangers while they were on the train to NYC many years ago: “…and they are even wearing the same coats!” Marie’s family and friends will miss her greatly, but are comforted knowing she lived a long and good life for over 100 years, full of wit until the end. She enriched the lives of others, and the good memories will live on. Sincere gratitude is extended to Marie’s caregivers at her assisted living home for their loving care and support, and also to Vitas Hospice for their compassionate assistance in her final few days. There will not be a funeral or memorial service. In lieu of flowers, and in Marie’s spirit, "Pay it Forward" with a random act of kindness.