Maria Teresa Festa

Maria Teresa Festa, a cherished matriarch, devoted mother, and beacon of strength and love, passed away peacefully at home in New Market, MD, on May 22, 2025, at the age of ninety-three. Born on October 18, 1931, in Madrid, Spain, Maria exemplified a life that honored her namesake, St. Teresa of Avila, a life of passion and dedication that would touch all who knew her.

Maria's adventurous spirit took her across Europe to England and Germany as a young adult, where she embraced the joys of skiing and cultivated a deep appreciation for different cultures. Her fluency in English opened doors to various jobs before she married the love of her life, Eugene Angelo Festa, on June 4, 1966, in her hometown of Madrid. Shortly thereafter, they embarked on a new chapter in Bowie, MD, in September 1966, where Maria worked briefly before dedicating herself to raising her daughter and engaging deeply with her community.

Throughout her life in Maryland, Maria was an active volunteer in local schools and was involved with several organizations, including the Sons of Italy, Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, and a Spanish club in Bowie. Her passion for helping others, coupled with her love for spending time with family and friends, cooking traditional Spanish dishes and traveling left an indelible mark on her community and loved ones.

In her later years, Maria moved to Leisure World in Silver Spring, MD, to be closer to her daughters and granddaughters. Then, she moved to New Market, MD, to live with her daughter, Tina. Her final months were spent surrounded by family after several months in the care of the Kline Hospice House staff, reflecting the compassion she had shown throughout her life.

Maria's legacy is carried on by her beloved family, including her sister, Ana Mari Perez Sanchez; son, Eugene Festa Jr.; daughters, Donna Hintersehr and Christine Russell; nine grandchildren: Michelle Dowell, Stephanie McMahan, Karen Rivers, Teresa Russell, Kathleen Whiteman, Kristen Russell, Danielle Russell, Jenna Russell, and Mary Russell; and five great-grandchildren: Angelina McMahan, Claire McMahan, Brooks Dowell, Molly Rivers, and Maddie Rivers. She was predeceased by her husband, Eugene Angelo Festa; son, James Paul Festa, and brother, Valentín Perez Berzal.

Maria was the embodiment of the family's spirit, valuing the importance of education and instilling a sense of pride and love in her family. She will be remembered for her unwavering support, love, and the joy she brought to every life she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Frederick Health Hospice, specifically for the Kline Hospice House, at 1 Frederick Health Way, Frederick, MD 21701, or through their online donation page at Frederick Health Hospice Donation.

Maria Teresa Festa's passion, spirit, and love live on through her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Her memorial service will take place 10 am on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church in Libertytown, MD, with a wake preceding the service from 9 to 10 am.

A graveside service and interment for Maria will be held Monday, June 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church Cemetery, 16501 Annapolis Road, Bowie, MD 20715.