Maria P. Kent - RESCHEDULED DUE TO WEATHER

Maria P. Kent, 80, of Hannibal, passed away at home surrounded by her family on January 20.

Born on February 28, 1945, in Veroli, Italy, Maria was the daughter of the late Gioacchino and Elisa Ascenzi. Maria was an extremely devoted wife, a proud and loving mother, grandmother, and sister. To know Maria was to love her – she loved and was loved by many. Her kindness, generosity, work ethic, and sense of humor were unmatched. Maria was an avid gardener–she could bring any wilted plant back to life, and had the most beautiful gardens surrounding her home for all three seasons. As she was so humble, she would never agree, but the most delicious smells came out of her kitchen. Maria kept her mind sharp with all kinds of puzzles, often solving what seemed unsolvable. She was this way in life, too–her wisdom often guided her loved ones in any area with her no-nonsense and brilliant way.

Maria worked for over 30 years as a teaching assistant at Fairley Elementary in the Hannibal Central School District. Maria volunteered at the Hannibal Free Library and the Historical Society for many years, and truly loved her community. Maria believed in always rolling up her sleeves and just getting to work without complaint. She served on many committees, volunteering her time to help with community gardens, at Our Lady of the Rosary, fundraising, and helping out during elections.

Maria loved spending time with her family, and loved her husband, Fred, of 53 years and children more than anything. She is survived by her children, Frederick Kent III (Elizabeth) and Stephanie (Albert) Zimmerman; two beautiful grandchildren, Lena and Ellie; four brothers, Joseph (Cheryl), Robert (Marian), Dante (Donna), and John (Karell); three sisters, Amelia (Joe) Iaboni of Italy, Maria Salome (Sam) Ascenzi and Assunta (Joe) Lisi of Toronto, Canada; and several nieces, nephews, and very good friends that she treasured and thought of as family.

Calling hours are Tuesday, January 27, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Foster Funeral Home, 837 Cayuga St., Hannibal. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 931 Cayuga St., Hannibal. A Spring Burial is planned for May in the Hannibal Village Cemetery. Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to Our Lady of the Rosary Church’s Resource Center or to the Hannibal Free Library in Maria’s name.