Marie F. (Vacante) Perry, RN

Marie F. Perry, RN of Hazle Township passed away peacefully on September 24th, 2024. Born on May 4th, 1937, Marie was the daughter of the late Joseph and Viola (Corra) Vacante and was raised in a loving Italian household in Kelayres. She graduated from McAdoo High School in 1954 and the Hazleton State Hospital School of Nursing in 1957. Marie began her professional career as a registered nurse in pediatrics at St. Joseph’s Hospital, working for over 30 years in the Hazleton area, practicing her profession with diligence and great pride. 

Mom was a caregiver her entire life, bringing immense comfort to both her family and friends. Her kind, compassionate, and dependable nature made her a favorite of all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She made a friend wherever she went with her warm, beautiful smile and dynamic and energetic personality. She truly was a class act.  

Mom was a fabulous cook, with her specialties being meatballs and sauce, braciole, and Italian wedding soup. Everyone loved her famous Italian cookies, which she made at Christmas and Easter. She loved watching Jeopardy, with a dictionary in hand, and the Hallmark Channel, always knowing there would be a happy ending. Above all, she loved spending time with her children and only grandchild, Alyssa, who was the light of her life.

Preceding her in death in addition to her parents are her first husband, Thomas K. Feissner, father of her two children; second husband, Carmen Perry; and brother, Frank J. Vacante.

Surviving are her loving and devoted children, son, Thomas K. Feissner, Esq. (Lisa), of Drums and Washington D.C.; daughter, Jacqueline Sweda (Jeff), of Hazle Twp.; granddaughter, Alyssa Marie Sweda, of Philadelphia, whom she adored; sister-in-law, Patricia Vacante, of Wilkes-Barre; several nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Lobitz and the entire staff of The Manor at Saint Luke Village for their professionalism, kindness, and compassion. 

Her funeral will be held on Saturday, September 28th. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. in St. John Bosco R.C. Church, Conyngham. Interment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, McAdoo.

Calling hours will be held from 9:00 am to 10:00 am in the church.

The Damiano Funeral Home Inc., McAdoo is assisting the family.

Condolences may be entered, and information is available at www.damianofhinc.com. 

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