Maria Marlene Manning

Maria Marlene Manning, age 68, passed on May 3, 2025. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on October 17, 1956, Maria was the cherished daughter of Anthony and Julia Girolami (née Maraldo).

Maria graduated from Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores in 1974, then pursued higher education with dedication and determination. She earned her undergraduate degree from Western Michigan University and later received her master’s in education from Ball State University. Maria built a long and impactful career in human resources. A devoted and hard-working, single mother, Maria balanced her career with unwavering love and support for her daughter, Sara. As a multi-cancer survivor, Maria was a passionate advocate for awareness and fundraising with the American Cancer Society and Wilson Cancer Center at Troy Beaumont. She also became a compassioned supporter of Dutton Farm later in life. In her spare time, Maria enjoyed lunching with “the ladies,” spirited games of bingo, reading mystery and thriller novels, tackling a good puzzle and cooking. She was also a proud fur grandma to Olive and Moxxi.

Maria is survived by her mother, Julia; daughter, Sara (Joel) Kohn; her siblings: Rodney (Jean) Girolami, Toni Girolami, and Gloria (Kevin) Charley; and many nieces and beloved friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her father, Anthony, and brother Richard Girolami.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 2:00 – 6:00 PM at COATS FUNERAL HOME – CLARKSTON, located at 8909 Dixie Hwy. In memory of Maria, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or The Dutton Farm in Rochester Hills, Michigan, two causes close to her heart.

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