TARPON SPRINGS, Mary B. Mulea, 82, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2020 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born to the late Thomas Patrick O’Rourke and Amelia Falcone O’Rourke on January 13, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Anthony O’Rourke and his wife, Hilda; and brothers Mark O’Rourke, Joseph O’Rourke, and Thomas O’Rourke.

Surviving in addition to her husband, Benjamin Mulea, is her son, Anthony Mulea and his wife, Carmen, of Maryland; daughters, Lynze Ritrievi, of Tarpon Springs, Kerry Chalk and her husband, Dean, of Apollo Beach, and Lisa Genco of Tampa; seven grandchildren, Kyle Simpson, Haley Huitt, Taylor Huitt, Greg Mulea, Nicole Mulea, Angelina Huitt, and Sofia Genco; brother, Patrick O’Rourke and his wife Bobbie, of Virginia; sister, Priscilla Ronnie Phelps and her husband, Larry, of Largo; brother, James O’Rourke; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

A true ‘love at first sight’ story, Mary was engaged to, and later married, Benjamin Mulea, after a short courtship of only two days. They started their family in Medford, Long Island, before seeking the warmth of the Florida sun. After four kids, ten cities, and fourteen houses, they celebrated 62 years of loving marriage this past December.

In Florida, Mary worked for Liberty Mutual for more than 25 years. However, her dream was to one day publish one of the two novels that she wrote in her spare time. Her creative story telling was magnified when she was around children, who were her joy and passion. Mary treasured all children, especially her seven grandchildren, and would often get on her hands and knees to play, sing, and tell stories.

Mary kept a home full of love and laughter. She enjoyed cooking for family and friends, especially around the holidays. She had a big heart that extended to everyone she met, especially the many family members and friends that surrounded her with care throughout her battle with cancer.