Mary E. Figueroa was born on May 25, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, to Fidel Figueroa and Grace Gonzalez. She attended Franklin K. Lane High School and continued her education at York College and the College of New Rochelle. Mary dedicated much of her professional life to the New York City Department of Education, where she worked with students with disabilities. Her kind disposition, gentle spirit, and remarkable patience allowed her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the students she served. Her compassionate nature extended beyond her profession, as she was also a devoted caretaker for her cousin, Carmen “Mimi” Cumba, who lives with a disability. 

Mary’s willingness to care for and support others was a beautiful reflection of the person she was. Her faith was an important part of her life. Mary was a member of the Forest Hills Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Tampa, Florida, where she enjoyed the fellowship of her spiritual family. In her leisure time, Mary was an avid reader and had a deep appreciation for music. Over the years, she amassed a varied and extensive collection of vinyl records and CDs. She also enjoyed collecting frog and lighthouse figurines, treasures that reflected her unique interests and personality. 

Mary will be lovingly remembered for her patience, compassion, and caring heart. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fidel Figueroa and Grace Gonzalez; brothers, Edgardo Figueroa and Enrico Noel. She leaves cherished memories to her brothers, Manuel Figueroa and Javier Figueroa; sister, Yolanda Figueroa-Baez (Bearl Cox); and a host of loving aunts, uncle and cousins.