Maria DeFlaviis

Maria was the loving wife of the late Gabriele. Beloved mother of Alfredo (Rita) DeFlaviis and Ida (Alessandro Baroni) DeFlaviis. Proud nonna of Bianca DeFlaviis, Gabriel (Lisa) DeFlaviis, Giulia (Alfredo Barba-Garcia) Baroni, Silvia (Alessandro Lusardi) Baroni, and Marco Baroni. Cherished bisnonna of Antonio, Valentina, Diego, Enea, and Agnese.

In 1956, Maria and Gabriele made the journey from Italy to the United States while expecting their first child. Despite the many challenges faced while learning a new language and culture, Maria was known for her strength and positivity. She spent her working years as a seamstress—but to her many clients, she was so much more. She was a friend, a confidante, and a source of comfort, always ready to listen and lend a kind word to those in need.

Maria was deeply proud of her Italian heritage and maintained strong, heartfelt bonds with fellow Italians who had followed a similar path. For nearly 70 years, she nurtured lasting friendships within the Italian American community, creating a sense of home and belonging for all who shared her roots.

She was an active member of her community. A woman of devout faith, she was involved with St Colette Parish and its sewing club. She also honored her heritage through her work with the Italian American Club of Livonia, including their rosary group. One of Maria's favorite pastimes was tending to her garden. She was also happiest when feeding the people she loved—there was always an extra dish on the table, just in case someone dropped by. Most of all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren.

A memorial mass will be held Wednesday, August 6, at 11:00 AM at St Colette Catholic Church, 17600 Newburgh Rd, Livonia, Michigan, 48152. Friends and family are invited to gather at the church beginning at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Maria's memory are appreciated to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.