Mary Borrellie

Maria Amelia Diaz, a loving wife, devoted mother, beloved sister, cherished grandmother, and treasured family member and friend, passed away on June 29, 2026, at the age of 71. She now rests in the eternal peace of God's loving embrace, having gone home to be with the Lord.

Affectionately known as "Mary," she was born on July 7, 1954, at Greenpoint Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, to Jesus and Amelia Diaz. She was the sixth of eight children. Mary grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings: Jesus Jr., Lydia, Felix, Paul, Manny, Eneida, and Gricel, whose lifelong bonds and shared memories remained dear to her throughout her life.

Mary was a devoted mother to her children, Elvin Jr. and Amy. Later in life, she found the love of her life and lifelong partner, her husband, Daniel "Danny" Borrellie. Together, they shared more than 35 wonderful years, building a home filled with love, faith, and family. They raised their children, J.J., Daniel III, and Dana, while lovingly embracing Elvin Jr. and Amy as part of the close-knit family they created together.

As devoted believers, Mary and Danny found strength, purpose, and joy in their faith. Their marriage was built on unwavering love, deep friendship, and steadfast devotion, remaining side by side through every season of life until the very end.

Family was the center of Mary's life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and beloved matriarch. Her love extended far beyond her own children, as she cared for her nieces, nephews, siblings, and countless relatives whenever they needed her. Mary had a gift for bringing people together, and her home was always filled with comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. She especially loved cooking for her family and took great pride in preparing meals that brought everyone together around the table, each one an expression of her love and care.

Mary truly had a heart of gold. She cared deeply for everyone, always offering a listening ear, words of encouragement, or a helping hand. She made everyone feel valued and loved. Those who knew her carry treasured memories of her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. A natural caregiver, she consistently placed the needs of others before her own, and her loving spirit brought comfort and joy to countless lives. She was deeply loved and cherished by all who knew her.

Throughout her career, Mary dedicated herself to serving others. She worked as a laboratory assistant and phlebotomist before becoming a truck driver for Café Bustelo Coffee Corporation, where her exceptional sense of direction and determination earned the respect of those around her. She was especially proud to serve as her coworkers' shop steward, representing and advocating for them with fairness and integrity. It was a responsibility she embraced wholeheartedly and one that reflected her commitment to helping others.

Later in life, Mary earned her Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee (CASAC-T) certification and began working as an assistant counselor, helping individuals struggling with addiction. She led recovery groups, creating a safe and encouraging space for those working toward sobriety. Mary poured her heart into supporting her clients on their journeys to recovery, and many credited her guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in them as instrumental in changing their lives.

Eventually, she devoted herself fully to what she considered her greatest calling: being a loving mother to her children and the matriarch of her entire family. Her grandchildren lovingly called her "Mamita," a name that reflected the warmth and unconditional love she gave so freely. Mary found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved spending time with her family, celebrating holidays together, sharing meals, and creating lasting memories with those she loved. Her greatest happiness came from caring for others, and she never hesitated to open her heart or her home to anyone in need.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jesus, and Amelia Diaz; her cherished life partner, Daniel "Danny" Borrellie; and her siblings, Jesus Jr., Lydia, Felix, Paul, and Manny Diaz.

She is lovingly survived by her sisters, Eneida and Gricel Diaz; her children, Elvin Jr., Amy, J.J., Danny III, and Dana; her beloved grandchildren, Ariella, Delilah, Michael II, Abraham, and Mateo; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Though she has entered into eternal rest, Mary's love will remain in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm in the Mausoleum Chapel of Raleigh Memorial Park, with Service and Remembrances beginning at 2:00 pm.

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