Maria Marilyn Palazzolo, 81, of Salem, NH, passed away unexpectedly in her home on Saturday, September 19, 2026. She was born on September 5, 1945, in Boston, MA, to the late Gaetano and Philomena (Poto) Martignetti.

Maria met the love of her life, Charles, while out one evening with friends. He told her that he would marry her from the very moment that he put eyes on her, and stuck to his word, with the two marrying only a few years later November 5, 1967. They then began their family in welcoming their only child, Charles Jr., in September of the following year.

Though Maria tragically lost her beloved husband when she was only 35 years old, she made sure that her son was never wanting. An ever-present parent and true mama bear, she championed his every achievement and stood by him through thick and thin. This love of family was only strengthened with the arrival of her only grandson, Victor, for whom she moved back to New England from her many years living in Las Vegas.

Maria was a go-getter, always staying active and on the go. She never truly retired, having worked with many beloved friends and coworkers at the Market Basket in the Tuscan Village of Salem right up until her passing. She enjoyed the finer things in life, like her daily Dunkin Donuts run and weekly T-Bones gathering with her best friends. She was a spitfire, a tough cookie, and certainly wasn’t afraid to tell you what’s what. Most importantly, she was a cherished mother and Nana to her beloved family.

Maria is survived by her son, Charles “Chuck” Palazzolo Jr. and his partner Cheryl DeFrancesco, with whom she shared a special bond; her grandson, Victor Palazzolo; her former daughter-in-law, Lucia Vasquez; grand-dog and best friend, Brownie; nephew, Mike Cartolano and his wife June; their children, Anthony, Gina, and Dante; in addition to many beloved friends and coworkers.

In addition to her parents and beloved husband, Charles Anthony Palazzolo, she is predeceased by her sisters, Claire Cartolano and her husband Sonny, and Elaine Petrucci and her husband Benny.

A Funeral Service will take place on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, beginning at 10am, at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Road, Windham, NH 03087. A burial will then follow at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett, MA.

For directions or to leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com