Maria Blackwood Obituary
Maria Blackwood, a woman of extraordinary warmth and joyful spirit, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the age of 77. Her life was a quiet masterpiece - built on love, laughter, hard work, and beauty in all its forms.
Born on June 6, 1948, in Kingston, Jamaica, Maria was raised in a home and culture that celebrated family, tradition, and faith. She later immigrated to the United States, carrying with her not just her heritage and immediate family, but a deep determination to create a life filled with purpose and opportunity for herself and future generations.
For over 30 years, Maria worked the overnight shift at Hasbro/Milton Bradley - a testament to her strength, consistency, and dedication. She was never one to seek attention, but her commitment and grace left a lasting impression on those who worked beside her.
Maria was the devoted wife of the late Howard Blackwood, with whom she shared a strong and loving marriage from September 3. 1988 until his passing in 2022. Together, they built a family rooted in love and loyalty. She was a loving mother to Faybian Palmer and Andrew Blackwood, and a devoted stepmother to Howard Blackwood Jr. Her pride extended to her granddaughter, Carolyn Palmer-Wallace (husband, Miguel), and her heart swelled with joy at the arrival of her great-grandson, Isaac Palmer-Wallace, who brought her laughter and light in her later years.
Maria shared an unbreakable bond with her siblings - sister Rosaline Reed, and brothers Trevor Cunningham (wife, Lucy) and Keith Royal. She was also a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews, and cherished her close relationships with a wide network of cousins and extended family. Maria was known for her sharp wit, playful sarcasm, and ability to make fast friends wherever she went. Her humor, loyalty, and generosity of spirit left a lasting mark on all who knew her.
Maria was a phenomenal cook, and her kitchen was a place of magic - alive with the smell of her famous Jamaican dishes, the sound of music on the radio, and her joyful little dances and singalongs as she moved about. She made everyone feel at home, and every moment feel special. She was also an extraordinary host, especially during the holidays, when her home was transformed with festive decor and personal touches down to the finest details - even the china she selected for each meal. Her dinners were lovingly prepared, her table always full, and her gatherings filled with laughter, music, and warmth.
Her love of beauty extended beyond her kitchen and celebrations - Maria had a special passion for gardening, plants, and flowers. Her home bloomed with life, both inside and out. Whether tending to her flower beds or arranging greenery around the house, she found peace and joy in nurturing living things.
She leaves behind her children, granddaughter, great-grandson, siblings, extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews, and a circle of friends who became family. Maria's love lives on in every garden she grew, every meal she shared, every song she sang, and every heart she touched. Though her earthly hands are at rest, her spirit still dances, her flowers still bloom, and her light continues to shine in all who knew and loved her. "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." – Proverbs 31:28 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Maria, please visit our Tree Store.
Published by westernmassnews on Oct. 1, 2025.