MaryAnn Elia

MaryAnn Elia, 81, of Cape Coral, FL, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025. Born June 6, 1944 in Hartford, CT. Attended St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Hartford, CT and graduated from Windsor High School in 1962.

MaryAnn is survived by her beloved husband of 22 years, Anthony (Tony) Elia; her daughter Dawn Shanley (John), daughter Christine Wascholl; son Anthony Magistri (Karina) and adored grandchildren Sean, Kate, Olivia, Aria and Lorenzo. Survived by her cherished family members, brother Carl Ricci and sister-in-law Joann of N. Ft. Myers; sister Brenda Ricci and sister-in-law Michele Poirier of Ocala/Tampa and sister-in-law Debbie Ricci of Riverview. She leaves behind many cherished family members in Connecticut and Massachusetts, including her nephew Carl and nieces Carlene and Joan-Marie and her soul sister Darlene McNamara.

MaryAnn was preceded in death by her loving parents, Mary and Carl Ricci of Windsor, CT and her brother, Paul Ricci.

Born and raised in Windsor, CT, she raised her children in Enfield and East Hartford, CT. She relocated to Cape Coral, FL with Tony and enjoyed exploring Florida beaches, trips to Key West and motorcycle rides to Nokomis and Daytona. She loved life especially having her family over for the holidays, hosting pool parties, swimming with her grandchildren, cooking for her family, reading Nora Roberts books and attending to her garden and roses. Her grandchildren were an endless source of pride. MaryAnn worked many jobs in Connecticut, including Alvin & Company, Advo Systems, National Car Rental, First Brands, Maneeley’s Catering, Olive Garden, at a convalescent home and a law office. As a CNA, she was extremely caring and loving to all her patients in Connecticut and at Healthpark Medical Center in Ft. Myers.

MaryAnn was a warrior and fought a brave battle against cancer for 8 months. She stayed positive and kept a smile on her face while telling her doctors she wanted treatment STAT! because she still had a lot of living to do. Unfortunately God had other plans and we are forever heartbroken without her. Her feisty spirit, nurturing soul and upbeat attitude will be deeply missed every day.