Mercy Anne Francke Maraia, who never met anyone she would consider a stranger, passed away recently following a lengthy battle with dementia.  Mercy’s life was one filled with light, joy, love, coffee, lots of chocolate, and trips to her native Brooklyn, New York.

She went to be with God on February 24, 2024, almost exactly 13 years following the death of the love of her life, Bob Maraia.  After meeting near the Hamptons, Mercy married Bob, and together they were blessed with three children, Joe, Suzy, and Jason, and eventually a granddaughter, Madison.  They were also blessed with many loved ones, including cousins Kathy and Paul – who thought of Mercy as a big sister, as well as countless friends including Marianne and Pat who were also by Mercy’s side throughout her battle with dementia.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Math and Education from Northeastern University, Mercy started her career as a teacher.  Later in life, when not serving on the Bay Area Soccer Association Board, Mercy continued serving others through counseling as a psychotherapist, having studied Counseling and Psychology at the University of Houston at Clear Lake.  After Bob’s passing, she joined the choir at St. Paul’s and shared her love of music with everyone in the parish.  Mercy was preceded in death by her brother, Bill.

Understanding that life is a gift from God, Mercy lived every day to its fullest. In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations in memory of Mercy Maraia to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at https://alzfdn.org/donate/.  Knowing that Mercy and Bob are now reunited, the family also is sure they would both encourage everyone to sign up to be an organ donor at https://www.donatelifetexas.org/register/.

Mercy’s family would also like to thank the wonderful, loving caregivers at The Shores at Clear Lake, who provided Mercy, and others afflicted with the devastating effects of dementia, with comfort and strength each and every day.

On Thursday, February 29, 2024, there will be a viewing and Mercy’s family will greet guests from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm with a Rosary at 7:00 pm at Crowder Funeral Home, 111 East Medical Center Blvd, Webster, TX 77598.  The Funeral Mass will follow on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 18223 Point Lookout Drive, Nassau Bay 77058.