Mary Panarello Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary McCarthy Panarello, who entered into eternal rest on July 9, 2025, at the age of 82. Mary was born on June 1, 1943, in Providence, Rhode Island, to George and Ursula McCarthy. She graduated from Colt Memorial High School in 1961 and went on to enjoy a fulfilling life rooted in family, faith, and community. Mary was the beloved wife of Michael Panarello for 54 years, until his passing in 2018.



Throughout her life, Mary held a variety of professional roles-including hospital secretary, bookkeeper, market researcher, and insurance service representative. While she took pride in her work, her most cherished role was being a devoted wife to Mike and a loving mother to their three children: Michael, Michele, and Matthew. Her family was always her greatest priority.



A lifelong member of St. Mary's Church, Mary found deep comfort and strength in her Catholic faith. She was also immensely proud of her Irish heritage and loved celebrating St. Patrick's Day with her family.



Mary found joy in life's simple pleasures-family vacations, TV and radio talk shows, a big snowstorm, playing cards and bingo, sharing a phone call or a cup of coffee with friends, going out to eat, and especially her regular visits to the Hope Diner. As an only child, she treasured the close relationships she had with her many cousins and dear friends.



One of Mary's most beloved traditions was her annual Fourth of July celebrations, where she hosted elaborate meals that began with breakfast and lasted well into the night after the fireworks. She was a talented cook and baker who made everything from scratch. Her family will fondly remember her homemade pizzas and calzones, her delicious meatballs, and her famous Thanksgiving sausage stuffing.



Mary was predeceased by her cherished parents and her loving husband, Michael. She is survived by her devoted children: Michael (Melanie) Panarello and Michele (Phillip) Bennett of Barrington, and Matthew (Siobhan) Panarello of Swansea, MA. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Nicholas (Brenna) and William Panarello, Olivia and Makayla Bennett, and Maxwell Panarello; as well as her great-grandson, Owen Panarello.



Her grandchildren will forever remember her warmth and presence in their lives. She spoiled them dearly - loving every opportunity to babysit, enjoying sleepovers and going to the movies with them, attending their school and sporting events, and celebrating their many achievements. She looked forward to their daily phone calls and treasured every FaceTime conversation.



Mary lived her entire life in the home she loved on Cottage Street in Bristol, before moving to Franklin Court Assisted Living six years ago. At FCAL, she found joy in daily Skip-Bo games with friends and special events, forming close friendships with fellow residents and staff - who quickly became like family to her. She will be missed dearly.



Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 330 Wood Street, Bristol, RI. Her burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary's name to Franklin Court Assisted Living - Activities Program, 180 Franklin Street, Bristol, RI 02809.



In this time of mourning, may we remember Mary for the joy she brought into our lives and the love she so generously shared. Her memory will remain a guiding light in our hearts. Funeral arrangements made through Connors Funeral Home.