Mary P. Festa

Mary P. Festa passed away peacefully on January 21, 2015 at the young age of 93. She was one of 4 siblings born to William and Lena Ward on July 25, 1921 in DeKalb, Illinois. Mary and "Russ" Russell wed in 1952 and had 8 children. Never ones to stay long in whatever State they lived in. Mary used to say "when the house needed cleaning it was time to move." They made Port Charlotte their home in 1969. Mary worked hard her entire life, especially as a stay at home mother. When she lost Russ she began 20 years of volunteering at St. Joseph's Hospital. Every visitor through the front door told Mary she had a wonderful smile, which she loved. During that time Mary met John Festa and they married in 1986 and continued to live in Charlotte County. Mary loved her family and friends, and traveled many places including Costa Rica and Ireland (her father's birthplace). When she was 85 years old, Mary took her first hot air balloon ride over Seattle. Mary really enjoyed a great life to the end and we will miss her terribly. Mary is survived by her children; Bud (Karen) Russell, Patty (Steve) Hill, Cindy (Gary) Eagle, Hope (John) Panipinto, Candy (Sam) Hays, Jacqueline Darling and Jim Russell along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, George, Robert and Babe; son, George Kinnett and husbands, Russ and John. According to Mary's wishes her immediate family will hold a special gathering at a later date to honor her. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to charity of your choice. To express condolences please visit www.Ltaylorfuneral.com and sign online the guest book.