Maria Baker (Graziano)

Maria (Graziano) Baker, 54, of Medford, MA, passed away peacefully at Kaplan Family Hospice Center on Sunday, August 10, 2025, following a courageous 9 year battle with cancer (GIST). She was born on January 24, 1971 to Paolo Graziano and Carmela (Romano) Graziano of East Boston, MA.

In 1995, she married her high school sweetheart Richard Baker. A few years later in 1998, she gave birth to their first daughter Samantha. Followed by Emma in 2001. Being a mother was her greatest joy and favorite role (until becoming a Nonna in 2022).

Maria graduated from University of Massachusetts Boston in 1993 where she earned her degree in Accounting before graduating from Bentley University in 1994 with a M.S. in Taxation. Maria had a successful career in Accounting and Taxation. She then went on to follow her dream of starting her own business, opening the doors to Play Academy Learning Center in 2004.

Maria was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She enjoyed traveling and spending time at the beach, often frequenting Revere Beach with her daughters and grandson.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 30 years, Richard Baker, her two cherished daughters Samantha Baker and Emma Baker and, the love of her life, her grandson Quincy Allien. Nonna called Quincy "Bello Della Nonna" and "La Vita Mia" and he called her "Best Friend Nonna".

Maria leaves her parents Paolo and Carmela Graziano. She also leaves her siblings Joanna Graziano and Frank Graziano and nephews Roman Graziano and Luca Graziano.

Maria will always be remembered for her kindness, selflessness, and strength. She was a fighter until the end and will be missed by so many friends and family members both here and in Italy. Her void will remain unfilled but we will hold her in our hearts forever. She is an inspiration to us all. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.

Friends and relatives are welcome to attend Maria's Funeral Mass which will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Revere Street, Revere, on Tuesday, August 19th at 10 AM. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Maria's memory to hJps://liferaftgroup.org or hJps://www.cradlestocrayons.org.