Marianne Renzella Dow, 80, of Billerica, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by the love of her devoted family after a long illness.

Marianne leaves behind her beloved husband of 61 years, George Dow of Billerica; her loving children, Wayne Dow and his Fiancée Nina Unsworth of Niantic CT., Kathy Gravlin and her Fiancé James Cho of Billerica, cherished grandchildren, Kerri Gentz, Christopher Gravlin, Madison Dow and Sydney Dow, adored great-grandchildren, Kayden, Christopher Jr and Lilianna, Her siblings, Joanne Renzella-Eckberg of Tewksbury, Joseph Renzella Jr. and his wife Paula of Burlington, and Roxanne Russell and her husband James of Londonderry, NH, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Born in Malden, Marianne was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph and Lillian (Sarnie) Renzella. She was raised in Burlington and graduated from Burlington High School as a proud member of the National Honor Society, a reflection of the intelligence, dedication and determination that would define her throughout her life. Following graduation, she began her career working as a secretary to the president of High Voltage Engineering. She then found a way to serve others by accepting a position as an executive assistant at Winchester Hospital’s Breast Health Center. She touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues before her well-earned retirement.

Marianne and George’s love story began while they were still in high school. Their teenage love blossomed into a remarkable 61-year journey together, building a family which was the center of Marianne’s world. She loved having everyone together and cooking everyone’s favorite meals. She was a devoted wife and mother who encouraged, supported, and loved unconditionally with steady guidance and quiet strength. Her greatest joy was becoming a grandmother, and great grandmother.

Beyond her family, Marianne had a passion for gardening and was a proud member of the Red Hat Society. Her sense of humor was legendary. She was quick-witted and she always had the perfect playful remark to keep George on his toes. Together they shared a lifetime filled with laughter. Marianne loved weekend shopping getaways with her sister Joanne, relaxing days on Lake Winnipesaukee, and traveling the world alongside George and dear friends.

Above all else, Marianne will be remembered for her generous heart, infectious laughter, and kindness. She possessed a rare gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her husband and family will forever remember her as simply one of the truly good people in this world; a woman whose life made countless others better simply because she was part of it.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her visitation on Thursday, July 16th from 4pm to 7pm at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, MA. Her funeral and burial will be private.