Mary Darling

Mary (Ricci) Darling, 58, of Wheelwright, formerly of Worcester, died peacefully in her sleep Saturday, Nov. 29, 2008. She was born and raised in Worcester, the daughter of the late Ralph and Anna M. (Paladino) Ricci. Her longtime companion with whom she lived, Donald Solomon, died this past September. Educated in Worcester, she was a teller at Guarantee Bank and Country Bank, and was a currency counter for Wells Fargo. Mary enjoyed reading, Bingo, cooking and spending time with her family. She was a selfless woman who loved helping others.

She leaves a son, Robert C. Darling Jr. of Sturbridge and a daughter, Anna M. Lawrence and son-in-law, Raymond VanDeusen of Gilbertville; five brothers, Joseph, Ralph and John Ricci, all of Worcester, Steven Ricci of Springfield and Edmund Ricci of Swansea; a sister, Tina M. Aspden of Worcester; five grandchildren, Nina, Mary, Beverly and William Darling, all of Worcester, and Joseph S. VanDeusen of Gilbertville; her former husband, Robert C. Darling Sr. of Sturbridge and her former daughter-in-law, Carmella Darling of Worcester; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She was predeceased by her sister, Karen Ward, and her grandson, David A. "DJ" Lawrence Jr., who died November 20.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m., at the Fitzgerald & Collins Funeral Home, 378 Lincoln St., Marlborough. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from noon to 2 p.m. The family requests that flowers be omitted. Burial will be private.

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