Marie A. Baggs

Marie A. Baggs, a cherished mother, grandmother, and community pillar, passed away peacefully at her home on August 25th, 2026, at the age of 86. Born near the picturesque city of Naples, Italy, on February 28th, 1940, Marie graced the world with her warmth, kindness, and indomitable spirit.

Throughout her life, Marie touched the hearts of many. She spent her early years in Cicero, Hanover Park, Bartlett, and St. Charles IL, before moving to Ankeny, IA. Starting her career as a beautician, she later became the much-loved Banquet Hall Manager at The Seville, where she brought joy to countless gatherings with her attention to detail and infectious enthusiasm.

Marie was a deeply spiritual woman and an original and active member of St. Ansgar Church in Hanover Park, IL where she enjoyed teaching first grade catechism. She served as both a Eucharistic minister and Hospital Ministry, offering comfort and compassion to those in need. A dedicated mother, she was also involved in the PTA, served as a Girl Scout Troop Leader for her children, and indulged her playful side in a bowling league with her beloved husband, Kenneth Baggs.

She had a remarkable talent for making everyone feel welcome. Whether hosting luncheons and dinner parties or ensuring her guests never left hungry, Marie's generosity knew no bounds. After surviving a stroke, her hospitality never waned, always finding a way to show her care. Known for her famous Limoncello, she delighted in sharing it with family, friends, and even at her doctor appointments. Her spinach pesto pasta became a favorite among her grandchildren, leaving a legacy of love and delicious memories.

Marie leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her daughter Gina (Thomas) Malamos and daughter-in-law Colleen Baggs; grandchildren Alexander (Andrea) Malamos, Louis (Emily) Malamos, Jenna (Kevin) White, Maddux (fiancé Kelsie Urban) Baggs, and Josie Baggs. She was a proud great-grandmother to Finn and Coralyn Malamos. She will be fondly missed by her many cousins, nieces, and nephews from Illinois to Pennsylvania, Canada, and Italy. Marie was preceded in death by her father Emilio Pacelli, mother Maria Pacelli, husband Kenneth Baggs, and son John Baggs.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4th, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Countryside Funeral Home & Crematory, 950 S. Bartlett Rd. Bartlett, IL. Prayers will follow the next morning at the Funeral Home at 8:45 am and then we will process to St. Ansgar Catholic Church, 2040 Laurel Ave, Hanover Park, IL for Marie's Funeral Mass celebrating her extraordinary life at 9:30 am. Entombment Mt. Hope Cemetery, Elgin, IL.

In Marie's honor you may donate to St. Cecelia’s Catholic School, Ames, Iowa, carrying forward her spirit of kindness and generosity.

Marie’s grace, compassion, and unyielding love for others will be remembered and cherished by all who had the honor of knowing her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.