Maryann Rita Staret

Maryann “Nonna” Rita Staret (Charlino), (85), devoted wife of 60 years to the late Walter Francis Staret, Sr., of Drexel Hill, PA., and Collegeville, PA., passed away peacefully on January 2, 2023 at Rosewood Gardens Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Broomall, PA.  Born in Philadelphia on May 12, 1937 to the late Mary C. (DiTiburzio) Charlino, she was also the beloved daughter of the late Francis “Frank” L. Charlino.  Maryann spent her early years in South Philly, until the family moved to Drexel Hill, PA., St. Bernadette of Lourdes Parish.  She attended West Catholic Preparatory High School, graduating in 1955, continuing her studies at St. Joseph’s University, both in Philadelphia, PA.  Maryann taught 7th grade at St. Cyril of Alexandria’s School in East Lansdowne, PA, was an active member of the Upper Darby School District PTA, helping to coordinate their geranium and hoagie fundraising sales.  She served for many years as the Head Librarian at St. Andrew the Apostle School in Drexel Hill, PA.  She was a devout Catholic and was heavily involved in St. Andrew’s Church and School, forging enduring relationships with several colleagues and members of the Clergy.  Maryann was dedicated to providing a nurturing learning environment while promoting a lifelong love of reading and pursuit of knowledge for all children; she often spoke of and fondly remembered her students throughout her life.

Maryann met the love of her life, Walt, in Philadelphia through their lifelong friend, Edward “Eddie” Helmig. They married in 1960, settling in Drexel Hill, PA where they raised their three children and had many memorable, happy occasions entertaining family and dear friends and neighbors.  Maryann was extremely devoted to taking care of her family and always fostered the educational, athletic, and artistic pursuits of her children and grandchildren.  Later in life, she and Walter moved to Collegeville, PA where she continued to support her grandson’s athletics, as well as being the party starter amongst their new neighbors.  Maryann took pride in making the family home beautiful. She had an impeccable, classic style, including an impressive collection of keepsake lighthouses, and an affinity for holiday decorating, especially her Christmas displays.  She was a talented chef and baker of Italian and Polish delights; no one ever left her house hungry. 

Maryann was a lifelong avid Philly sports fan, and especially enjoyed watching the Phillies and Eagles with Walt.  She cherished trips to the Jersey shore and Florida, and dinner outings with friends; she enjoyed crossword puzzles, Painted Lady Victorian houses and decor, the Mummers Parade, Philly music of the 1950’s, and all things Floridian especially flamingos, palm trees, manatees, and a nice cold margarita.  She instilled in her family a solid sense of faith, mindfulness, and courage in the face of a challenge.  Maryann was a vibrant spirit, had a contagious sense of humor, and could make a friend anywhere she went. 

Maryann was survived by her treasured children; Walter Jr. (husband of Dara) of Jacksonville, FL., Frances of Philadelphia, PA., and Paula of Collegeville, PA.; cherished grandchildren Jerry, Jennie, and Shane; beloved brother Richard (Mary Louise) Charlino; dear nephews Rick (Donna), Dan, and Tim; dear niece Kristin (David); adored Aunt Frances Honsberger “Zizi”; beloved cousins Annette (wife of the late Ray) Sozio, Clementina “Tina” (Don) Meyer, Mary (Steve) Davidson, Anthony (Denise) Bilotti, Anita Bilotti, Arthur Burzio, Frances Ann Farah (Burzio); generations of cousins; and friends whom were near to her heart.  In addition to her Husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her cousin, Paul Tappata.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Visitation on Friday, January 20th from 9:30-10:30AM at Vraim Funeral Home, 66 S State Rd, Upper Darby, PA 19082; followed by the Funeral Mass at 11AM at St. Andrew the Apostle, 3500 School Ln, Drexel Hill, PA 19026; and Committal at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, 1600 Sproul Rd, Springfield, PA 19064.  The Funeral Mass will be recorded and available on the Vraim Funeral Home website.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Bread of Life Community Food Pantry, Mailing Address: P.O. Box 131, Schwenksville, PA 19473,  https://dailybreadcommunityfoodpantry.org/   and click on the Donate dropdown menu.   To view the obituary or leave condolences visit https://www.vraimfh.com/ 

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