Marie O'Neill, the beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully Thursday morning August 24 2023 at the age of 96.

Born in Dorchester on January 15, 1927, Marie Nicholson was the daughter of Alice "Allie" and Joseph Nicholson. She was the caring older sister to Joe Nicholson, Erin Nicholson, previously deceased, and Cathleen McIntyre. Marie attended Cathedral High School in Boston's South End, followed by Boston State College where she received her degree in Education.  Once graduated, Marie began her career as a teacher in the Boston School System.

Marrying James J. O'Neill in 1950, they settled on Whitten Street in Dorchester to begin raising a family.  Leaving the city in the 1960s, they moved to the suburbs of Canton, MA where the family continued to grow to include six children.  Summers were spent in the Brant Rock village of Marshfield, where the family enjoyed the freedom and friendships fostered by Marie's open, warm, and always welcoming household.

Marie returned to work, once her children had grown, as a second grade teacher at Canton's Dean S. Luce School.  She worked in the Canton School System for many years, educating and influencing hundreds of students in her time.  A fun but thoughtful teacher, she was much beloved by her students.

Marie and Jim retired to their home in Bluefish Cove, Marshfield in the 1980s where they were regarded as respected members of the small ocean side community.  There they spent the remainder of their 57 year marriage accompanied by their children and grandchildren who were never too busy to spend their time visiting and enjoying their company.  Marie was known for her exceptionally strong spirit and her sense of humor.

Survived by their children:  Erin O'Neill, son Timothy, of Marshfield, MA, Sharyn O'Neill also of Marshfield, John and Alice O'Neill, daughter Kathryn, of Maui, HI, Cathleen and Robert Palmer, children Gregory, Kylee, and Dylan of Canton, and Chris and Lisa O'Neill, sons Nicholas and Cameron, of Derry, NH.  Preceded in death by:  Her husband James J. O'Neill, and son James J. O'Neill Jr.

In ar gcroithe go deo (In our hearts forever)

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. and will conclude with a Funeral Service at 6:30 p.m. at the MacDonald Funeral Home, 1755 Ocean Street in Marshfield.

Marie spent many of the cold winter months with John and Alice on the island of Maui.  In lieu of flowers please donate to the https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/strengthening/maui-strong-fund

For online guest book, driving directions and other helpful information please visit the website macdonaldfuneralhome.com