Mary L. Merola, a beloved mother and cherished figure in her family, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at South County Hospital, at the age of 96. She was the loving wife of the late Vincent A. Merola, Sr. Born on April 4, 1929, in Central Falls, she was a kind-hearted woman whose spirit remained strong and brave throughout her life, especially as she faced the challenges of glaucoma.

Mary dedicated many years of her life to caring for others, having worked as a nurse's aide for Hopkins Health of North Providence before retiring.

A wonderful mom, Mary was known for her sassy personality and a great zest for life. She found joy in the simple pleasures, whether it was indulging in her passion for cooking or sharing days of clothes shopping with her daughter, Valerie, with whom she lived for the last 15 years. Mary lived life to the fullest, creating a warm and nurturing home filled with love. She was the oldest relative on both sides of her family, serving as a pillar of strength and wisdom.

Mary is survived by her loving daughter, Valerie Friel, and her devoted son, Vincent A. Merola, Jr. She is also remembered fondly by her cousin, John Kennedy. Mary now joins her deceased family members, including her mother, Katherine (Stadnicki) MacDonald, and her father, Lloyd MacDonald.

Mary's services will be respectfully private. The family would like to thank the nurses at South County Hospital in the ER and second and third floors, as well as the staff at Lakeside Nursing Home in North Kingstown, for their dedicated care. www.robbinsfuneralhome.com