Kahului, Hawaii - Mary "Marie" Regina Amaral, age 97, went home to The Lord, leaving behind a legacy of devotion to family, hard work, and quiet joy in life's simple moments.

Marie was born on September 7, 1928, in Puʻunēnē, Maui. She was the last of her twelve siblings, all of which have preceded her in passing. She was raised in Puʻunēnē and attended Puʻunēnē School before graduating from Saint Anthony High School in 1947.

Following her graduation, Marie began her career with Kahului Development Company, later known as Alexander & Baldwin. Marie played an active role during the early development of what became known as Dream City in Kahului, contributing to the first increment of its growth. As a cashier, receptionist, and switchboard operator, Marie handled rental collections, fielded calls, and welcomed visitors with warmth. She truly loved her work and the connections she made throughout her 47 years of service.

In 1953, Marie married Gilbert Lawrence Amaral, who was employed with Hawaiian Sugar Company. Together they built a life rooted in love and resilience. They welcomed their son Bert in 1956 and their daughter Debi in 1961. During the time her husband served in Vietnam for two tours, Marie faithfully managed both her home and career, embodying strength and dedication.

Marie found her greatest joy in her family. She was an avid reader of love stories—what she fondly called "soft romance." She had an incredible memory and memorized over 60 poems, which she would recite aloud during her daily morning walks in her yard, a cherished ritual she continued until the rains came this past March.

She deeply treasured visits from her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her nieces and nephews. These moments filled her with laughter, storytelling, and a profound sense of love and renewal.

Marie will be remembered for her warmth, her resilience, her gentle spirit, wisdom, and the love she gave so freely to those around her.

A service will be held on May 7, 2026, at Christ the King Church in Kahului, Maui. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a eulogy delivered by Dr. Linda Wheeler at 10:00 a.m. A Mass will immediately follow with burial to take place at 1:00 p.m. at The Makawao Veterans Cemetery.

She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered always.