SALEM - Mrs. Marina Stoianovici-Connolly, of Salem, beloved wife of Michael Connolly, passed away peacefully on April 10th, 2024, at Brigham and Women's Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 18th, 1967, in Bucharest, Romania, she was the daughter of Mircea Stoianovici and Niculina (Raicu) Stoianovici. She was raised in Romania prior to her journey that led her to the United States in 1982. Marina pursued her education, graduating high school at King-Drew Medical Magnet in Los Angeles and then receiving her bachelor's degree from the University of California at Riverside. After time in Ohio, New Jersey, and Michigan, Marina and her husband Michael eventually found their home in Salem, Massachusetts.

Her passion for animals, especially cats, was evident in her work as a Vet Tech, and extended beyond her professional life as she welcomed them with open arms into her own home. After moving to Massachusetts Marina went to work for Salem Hospital in their Surgery Center for several years. Marina enjoyed the beach and would scour the sands for seashells with which she would craft beautiful art pieces. A lover of literature, Marina could often be found engrossed in a book, seeking solace in the words of her favorite authors. She loved to cook and drew inspiration from her travels to craft dishes with special ingredients she gathered from around the world.  Marina's passion for cooking was truly a reflection of her spirit and adventurous nature. She will be forever remembered for her kindness, her unwavering love for all creatures great and small and will be deeply missed by all who loved her. Marina is survived by her loving husband, Michael Connolly, of Salem, with whom she shared countless cherished moments and adventures, her sister Roxana Golet and her husband Florin Gabriel Golet and her niece, Alexandra Marina Golet all of Cleveland Ohio.

ARRANGEMENTS: Family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues are invited to attend a celebration of Marina's life on Saturday, May 11th from 1-4 PM at the Village Tavern in Salem. The Village Tavern is located at 168 Essex Street, Salem, MA 01970. Village Tavern Ample parking is available at the Museum Place Mall. Take stairway #2 for access to the tavern. Light appetizers will be served with an open wine & beer bar. Piece's of Marina's art will be on display accompanied by a playlist of her favorite music. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM. www.odonnellfuneralservice.com