Marie V. Harkins, faithful church member
Marie V. (Vignola) Harkins, 91, of Wilmington, passed away Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023. She was born April 1, 1931, in Wilmington, daughter of the late Carmine and Philomena (Alfonso) Vignola.
She was preceded in death by her brothers Daniel, Joseph and Carmen Vignola; and by her son William F. Harkins Jr.
Marie is survived by her husband of 66 years, William F. Harkins; and four of her children: Kathryn (Kim) Rizzo and husband John Sr., Ruth A. Harkins, Marie Gemmola and husband Anthony, and Thomas C. Harkins and wife Francine. Marie has four grandchildren, John Paul, Mark and Stephen Rizzo, and Jaclyn Harkins; and six bonus great-grandchildren, Sarah, Natalie, Lucas, Erin, Alex and Eddie.
A longtime member of St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Marie served as a religious educator, sacristan and Eucharistic minister. She was also an associate for the Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Scranton, Pa. She retired from the DuPont Company.
In retirement, she loved Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Delaware, focusing on the arts, creative writing, drawing and watercolor classes. The highlight of her writing is the book “Grandma’s Christmas Story,” dedicated to Marie’s angels, her grandchildren.
Marie enjoyed spending time at the beach, especially at Oak Orchard and Gull Point. She treasured spending time on the water boating, fishing, and cruising with family and friends. Sunrises and sunsets over the Indian River, and bird-watching filled her quiet days with joy and peace.
Family and friends are invited to visit from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m., Friday, Feb. 3, at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 2503 Centerville Road, Wilmington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon. Interment will be held immediately following at All Saints Cemetery.
