Millbury – Susan Mariano, 69, a long time Grafton business owner passed away in her sleep, Tuesday, April 26th, 2022, after a valiant battle with cancer.
Susan was a loving mother and a beloved member of a very large family—a devoted sister, a loving aunt, a loyal friend, she was cherished by all those who knew her. Susan was born in Worcester, one of nine children of Romeo “Ray” and Aldea (Chaisson) Mariano. Educated in the Worcester school system, Susan furthered her education earning an associate degree from the Worcester Industrial Technical Institute “WITI.”
For the past 30 years, Susan owned and operated Lucente Jewelers in Grafton, always greeting customers with a smile. She took great pride in her work and the value that she offered to her loyal customers.
A graduate of Burncoat Senior High School, Susan was touched by the large number of students at the school who were homeless. In an effort to provide a small bit of relief, she organized annual fundraising efforts. Each year, during the holiday season, she made sure that students received gift cards. She also provided financial support for students to receive winter clothing and food. For her efforts, she was awarded the “Volunteer of the Year” award by the Worcester Public Schools.
An avid golfer, Susan played most of the courses in the region regularly and golfed on some of the world’s most beautiful courses. She had been a member at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Sutton. Susan also loved the competitive nature of poker and entered and won a number of professional tournaments. She traveled extensively. She is a member of St Peters church.
Susan is survived by a daughter, Tiffany Lila Baker; three brothers, Raymond, Gary, and John Mariano; five sisters, Nancy Geas, Lila Herman, Marie Mariano-Gardiner, Sharon Barry and Christine Mariano; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Susan took comfort in knowing that on her passing she would join her life partner of 30 years, Wilson Flores, and her mother whom she missed every day.
Susan’s funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, May 4, 2022, at 11 am in St Peters Church, 931 Main Street, Worcester. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. There are no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in Susan’s name can be made to support homeless students at Burncoat Senior High by sending a donation in her name to the school.
The Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester, is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
