Ms. Maria Elena Cataldo, 79, of Raleigh, NC peacefully passed away on September 28, 2021, surrounded by her adoring family. Maria was born on January 16, 1942 in Brooklyn, NY and graduated from Lindenhurst (NY) High School. Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Doris Cataldo, her uncle, Rev. Joseph Cataldo and her twin sister, Anita Elena.

Maria spent her life providing unconditional love and support to her family and loved ones. She was active in the Three Village (NY) School District PTS, little league, and a long list of endeavors involving her children. Maria touched everyone’s life with her compassion and love and had a long list of friends and family who simply referred to her as “Mom”.

Maria dedicated herself to her work as a CNA at the St. James Nursing Home in St. James, NY where she provided exceptional care to her residents. She worked at Ayers Chiropractic in Raleigh, NC for 13 years which she absolutely loved and brought so much joy to her life. Most recently she was employed at Hayes Barton Methodist Church where her days were filled with the love and laughter of the children she cared for.

Maria’s life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children: Greg (Jessie) Ball of Chandler, AZ; Dana (Paul) DiSands of Coatesville, PA; Tara Ball of Raleigh, NC; and her niece Victoria Lane of St. Augustine, FL with whom she shared a special relationship with. She will be forever missed by her grandchildren Emily, Josh, Kaleb, Jason and Simon as well as many nieces, nephews, and godchildren. A memorial service will be held at 6:00 pm on October 4, 2021 at the Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh. On October 6, 2021, at 1:00 pm, Maria will be put to rest at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association