Mary Lou Spinelli

Mary Lou (Fitzgerald) Spinelli was born on April 13, 1939 and passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025 surrounded by her loving family who were grateful to share special moments with her exchanging love, memories and heartfelt gratitude for her strength, wisdom and unwavering guidance throughout the years.

She was the daughter of the late Vincent M. and Margaret V. (Geelan) Fitzgerald, and was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Mary Lou was a graduate of St. Brendan’s High School. She and her husband began raising their young family in the city, later moved briefly to upstate New York, and eventually settled in Dartmouth, Massachusetts where she made her home.

Mary Lou cherished her role as a mother, and devoted many years to raising her children with love and dedication. Later, she went on to build a successful career in sales and marketing working with a variety of companies throughout the years including Computers and Things, Business Digest, The Cedars and Long Built Homes. Mary Lou was a member of the Kiwanas Club of New Bedford, served on the Board of Directors for Project Independence, the Alzheimer’s Association Partnership of Southern Massachusetts, and the Bristol County Estate Planning Association. Mary Lou touched many individuals not only on a professional level but on a personal level as well. She was “quick witted” and had a great sense of humor.

Lovingly called “Grammy”, “Gram-cracker”, and “Matilda”, each a reflection of the warmth and affection she inspired in those who loved her so much. Mary Lou adored her family, especially her beloved grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Family celebrations meant everything to her- they were among the happiest times in her life. She found joy in preparing for the special celebration- and just as much delight in looking back and reliving the memories afterward. Grammy especially loved making Easter and Christmas baskets and was known as the very best at it, always putting so much love and creativity into each one.

Friendships were deeply important to her. She cherished the special bond she shared with her best friends, her sister-in-law, Joanne and her beloved brother Paul. The three of them were the best travel companions, sharing unforgettable adventures across Europe-visiting Ireland, Italy, Spain, England and even Bermuda. Together they made lifelong treasured memories. Her very close friends, Jean and Paul Bessette of Dartmouth and countless amazing friends always held a special place in her heart. Her friends from Eighth Green Drive were especially dear to her. Being part of that community brought her so much love, laughter and wonderful memories.

She is survived by her children, Christine Long and husband Robert of Dartmouth, Donna Spinelli of Dighton, Suzanne Spinelli of Bonita Springs, FL and Jill Sullivan and husband Christopher of Mattapoisett; her grandchildren, Patrick Fitzsimmons and wife Lauren, Kendal Fitzsimmons, Shannon Staton and husband Dennis, Jillian Carocari and husband Ben, Courtlyn Ruditsky and husband Max, Madison Barber and fiancé Patrick Cummings and Colin Sullivan; her great grandchildren, Olivia Staton, Mila Staton, Austin Fitzsimmons, Stella Carocari, Amelia Fitzsimmons and Skylar Carocari; and many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings, Margaret DeHayes and Paul C. Fitzgerald.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025 from 4-7 pm in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Rd., Dartmouth. Her Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 10am in St. Mary's Church, Dartmouth St., Dartmouth. Burial in South Dartmouth Cemetery. For online tributes, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com