Marie G. Cristello

Marie Genevieve Cristello

1933 – 2026

Marie Genevieve Cristello, the beloved matriarch of a large and vibrant family, passed away at the age of 93. A woman of boundless warmth, fierce generosity and a wonderfully silly sense of humor. Marie dedicated her life to making sure everyone around her was happy, loved and—above all—well-fed.

Marie was the ultimate nurturer. Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by her children, grandchildren, their partners and a rotating door of extended family and friends. She lived for large family gatherings, operating under the strict rule that everyone was welcome and absolutely no one left hungry. A visit to Marie’s house inevitably concluded with a full stomach and a heavy doggy bag to take home.

An avid baker, she was legendary for her cookies, which became the cornerstone of every family Christmas. When she wasn't in the kitchen, she was often found crocheting; Marie made it a personal mission to ensure that everyone she knew scored at least one handmade scarf and if they were lucky, a matching hat. She loved to stay active with her hands, dabbling happily in ceramics and watercolors over the years. And while she famously couldn't hold a musical note to save her life, that never stopped her from singing along to her favorite tunes, completely unbothered and at the top of her lungs.

She loved to play Scrabble and Rummikub, and she usually won every game. Her legacy lives on in the tight-knit family she built, the traditions she passed down and the countless warm memories shared by those who were fortunate enough to call her Mom, Nannie and friend.

Marie was predeceased by her parents and her beloved brother, Carlo.

She is survived by her seven children: Anthony, Jeanmarie, Paul, Thomas, Mark, Lori, and Stephen; her six cherished grandchildren: Jenina, Liam, Lizzie, Anthony, Alana and Logan; and her former husband and lifelong friend, Anthony "Cris" Cristello