CAPONE, MARIA, 93, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. She was married for 52 years to her beloved husband, Antonio Capone, M.D., who preceded her in death on June 16, 2009.

Born in Brindisi, Italy, on October 5, 1932, Maria was the daughter of Gioacchino Morello and Iolanda (Piliego) Morello. She was the sister of Teodoro and Aurelio Morello and the late Raffaele Morello.

Maria was born at the height of the Great Depression, when Italy was under Mussolini's fascist rule, and came of age amid the upheaval of World War II. Her family relocated frequently before settling in Naples. Raised alongside her three brothers, she developed a deep and unwavering devotion to family—a value that guided her throughout her life. She earned a master’s degree in education in her early twenties. During that time, she met Antonio, who was pursuing his medical degree. They married in 1957 and left their families in Italy to build a new life together in Providence, Rhode Island.

Maria devoted her life to raising her three sons and caring for her husband, a calling she embraced with passion and determination. Known for her self-taught culinary talents and warmth as a hostess, she was also a trusted source of wisdom and guidance for family and friends. She carried herself with a rare blend of strength, elegance, and gentleness. Her quiet dignity, sensitivity, and grace defined all that she did. She leaves a legacy of unconditional love and an enduring example of what it means to give oneself fully to those one loves.

Maria is survived by her sons, Antonio Capone Jr., M.D., and his wife, Carolyn, of Birmingham, Michigan; John L. Capone and Pamela Giannuzzi Savelli; and Walter M. Capone and his wife, Pam, all of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She is also survived by five grandchildren—Brett, Lauren, Siena, Christopher, and Haven Capone—as well as numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.

In accordance with Maria’s wishes, the services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Maria’s memory to Duke HomeCare & Hospice, Hock Family Pavilion, 12 Moore Drive, Durham, NC 27713, or online at https://www.givetodukeathome.org.