Marie A. Cantolino, age 83 years old, of Bradenton, FL., passed away on December 16, 2022, after battling a series of complications resulting from muscular dystrophy, leukemia and pneumonia.
She was born in Brooklyn, New York, and was raised in a loving Catholic, Italian family, the oldest of three children. Marie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education from St. John's University in Queens, New York. She had a special heart for family and children, as shown in her early career as a much-loved elementary school teacher. Later, she became a realtor and a real estate entrepreneur.
Marie will always be known for her caring spirit and great love for others and for life. She knew how to brighten someone's day and had a gregarious personality. A woman of many talents, she was a polished pianist and shared her God-given gift by playing at the Catholic Women's Bible Study weekly, which was enjoyed by all. A member of the Catholic Women's Association for ten-plus years, she encouraged and enjoyed faith-filled relationships. She was also a devout member of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites. Marie was known for her philanthropic generosity and devoted her time toward civic duties. For several years, she was a member of the Citizens Review Committee of Manatee County and assisted abused women and neglected children.
Marie is predeceased by her husband, Dr. Savlatore J. Cantolino, who practiced as an Ophthalmologist in the community. Her only brother, Anthony Pillitteri had also predeceased her. She is survived by her younger sister, Vivian Gambino (married to Dr. Peter Gambino) and her three grown children, Lori Wolf, Christopher Cantolino (married to Melissa Cantolino) and Mary Beth Smith (married to Colonel Mark Smith). Marie was blessed with 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, all whom she adored and loved dearly. She will be sorely missed by this community, her friends and her family members.
Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 PM, Thursday, December 22, 2022, at Brown & Son's Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, Florida 34209. Services will be 12 Noon, Friday, December 23, 2022, at Ss. Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church, 2850 75th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209. Interment will follow at Mansion Memorial Park, 1400 36th Avenue East (Ellenton-Gillette Road) Ellenton, Florida 34222.
Condolences may be made to www.brownandsonsfuneral.com.
