Mary L. "Marie" Espinola unexpectedly took flight from her home in New Bedford and embarked on a journey Heaven bound, receiving her wings on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.

Marie was 83 years young, born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on October 8, 1941.  She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Louise (Rose) Espinola and wife of the late Franklin J. Pina.

After Marie graduated and settled into adult life she married Franklin J. Pina and enlarged their family with the birth of three daughters, a set of twins, Gerry and Terry, followed by their youngest child, Linda.

The first part of Marie's life was lived in New Bedford raising and caring for her girls, whom she loved dearly.  From Marie's children came the next generation of blessings, her two grandsons, whom she was crazy about, Jeffrey S. Lopes, Linda's son, and Tyree A. Almeida, Terry's son.

Over the years, her husband Franklin became ill and lost his battle due to his health issues.

The second part of Marie's life was lived when she moved to California, where she started her own cleaning business.  It quickly expanded and thrived with her vibrant personality giving her customers professional friendly service.

The third part of Marie's life was lived when she returned to New Bedford and spent her remaining years reunited with her daughters and once again provided her motherly support and love to all three.

Throughout her life, Marie enjoyed walking and could be seen all over town.  She was a free spirit marching to the beat of her own drums with such a lively inviting personality.  Anyone who knew Marie could count on her to bring life to any place she occupied.  You could be guaranteed that some smiles and laughter would be had by all, along with some feisty conversation at times.

One of Marie's favorite pastimes that brought her a joyful peace was walking along the beach listening to the sounds of the ocean.  Other hobbies included her vast collection of ceramic elephants and Oriental art pieces.  She felt comfortable getting in the kitchen and cooking up "Marie's secret recipes," which to this day remain a secret.  She also had no problem speaking her mind, telling stories expressing how she thought people ought to be treating one another.

Marie's faith in God throughout her life was established by attending services at Our Lady of the Assumption Church and in her later years, visiting Our Lady's Chapel in downtown New Bedford.

Marie was predeceased by her three daughters, the twins, Gerry Pina and Terry Pina, and Linda Almeida; and two brothers, Juvinal P. Espinola and Daniel P. Espinola.

She is survived by her only two cherished grandsons, Jeffrey S. Lopes and Tyree A. Almeida; her devoted son-in-law, Robert T. "Bobby" Almeida; 8 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and fondly, Aunty Pauline, Aunty June, and cousin Cynthia.

Marie will be celebrated on Saturday, November 9, 2024 with a service at 1 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford.  Visiting hours will be Saturday from 10 AM - 1 PM, prior to the service.  For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.