Wilmington - Marie Grace (Passio) O’Donnell, daughter of Rita and Vincent J. Passio, passed away at 76 years old on November 19, 2021. Born on April 30, 1945, Marie grew up in South Philadelphia, where she met her husband, John.
Marie is preceded in death by her son, John J. O’Donnell, Jr., parents; sister, Carmella Capone; and brother, Vincent Passio Jr. She is survived by her doting husband of 57 years, John J. O’Donnell; daughters, Denice (Pasquale) Esposito and Cecilia (Steven) Kendus; grandchildren, Amanda O’Donnell, Ariona (Shawn) Holmes, Marissa and John Esposito, Gabriella and Dominique Kendus; great-grandchildren, Joseph and Ava O’Donnell, John Quinn, and Shaun Holmes; and ten nieces and nephews.
Marie and John have made their home in Wilmington, Delaware since 1994, just steps from Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. She valued her family more than anything, as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. Nicknaming her “Lady Jane,” Marie’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren enjoyed spending time with her at the nail salon, drinking Starbucks, and talking sports, especially the Phillies. What’s more, Marie was her husband’s biggest fan. She regularly attended his softball games and cheered him on from the sidelines.
Caring, resilient, comedic, and above all, protective, Marie gave life advice–many times unsolicited–and encouraged everyone she loved to be the best they could be. Her infectious laugh, sense of humor, and huge heart will be missed immensely by all who knew her.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday, November 23 from 6-8 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 4701 Weldin Rd, Wilmington, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 24. Burial will follow at Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 125 South 9th Street, Suite 202, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
A live webcast will be available at this link: https://youtu.be/kvp5PtJ65Tc
For online condolences visit:www.mccreryandharra.com
