Appreciation: Marjorie Colwell, a Warm and Ever-Present Figure in Eastie, Dies

Marjorie Colwell, a lifelong East Boston resident and volunteer known for her warm personality, devotion towards Eastie and deep love for her husband, Peter, has died. 

Mrs. Colwell died peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Oct. 10 after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Marjorie Colwell, a lifelong East Boston resident and volunteer known for her warm personality, devotion towards Eastie and deep love for her husband, Pete.

“My mom brought peace to this world with her positive spirit and endless enthusiasm,” said her son, Peter Colwell. “She was one-of-a-kind, and will be dearly missed. Her peaceful spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.”

Throughout the years Mrs. Colwell and her husband became the epitome of love and affection–enjoying social gatherings across Eastie. Whether it was a Golden Age Club luncheon, political fundraiser, or community event, Mrs. Coswell and Peter were always arm-in-arm and the first couple on the dance floor, tenderly dancing with one another. 

“Margie was one of most beautiful women I’ve ever known. She was a kind and gentle soul, yet fun and enthusiastic,” said friend Nancy Parker. “She took a genuine interest in everyone she met and always had a smile. She lived with purpose and absolutely adored her husband, Peter. They cared for each other like no couple I have ever known- soul-mates, for sure. Margie was truly a special woman, and will forever be remembered. My children and I have many small gifts she gave us over the years. Our sympathies to Peter, ‘Little’ Peter and Susan. Our family shares in your heartache.”

As unofficial ambassadors of Eagle Hill, many will remember Mrs. Colwell and Peter walking through their neighborhood for decades, holding each other’s hands, never afraid to show their love for one another. They always shared stories of unconditional love and pride about their children, Peter, Susan Boriso and their grandchildren. 

“I’m truly heartbroken to hear this. Marjorie was one of the kindest, loving, and sincere people I’ve known,” said Eagle Hill Civic Association President Debra Cave. “She and her husband were the epitome of a loving couple… always holding hands and so obviously in love. She’ll be missed.”

Mrs. Colwell specialized in the Tonsorial Course of Study as a student at Boston Trade School and received her high school diploma from the Boston Trade School the same day she earned her diploma from the New England Barber School in 1956. 

Known for her spontaneous sense of humor and a sharp, truthful response to current issues of the day she entertained people in nursing homes, prisons, and performed at birthday parties. She was a hostess of the traveling entertainment show called “The Singletones” – performing with her brother Charlie and her husband Peter. 

For many years Mrs. Colwell was a member of the BCYF Paris Street Community Center. 

“Margie was a longtime member of the BCYF Paris Street Community Center, where she would greet us with her contagious smile and a piece of candy every time she came in our doors,” said Paris Street Director Nicole DaSilva. “She was never short in finding a kind word about someone. On behalf of the staff and members at Paris St we extend our deepest condolences to Margie’s family. Your mom and her loving, kind ways will always be remembered and will be greatly missed by so many.”

Mrs. Colwell was also a longtime Sunday school teacher for several years at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Eastie. 

Above all, Mrs. Colwell loved her family and was known for putting on fun and elaborate family gatherings. She was especially known for her baked haddock dinners, great haircuts, and her warm hospitality. Her energy lit up a room and imparted on people what families are all about – enthusiastic love for each other. 

Mrs. Colwell’s first priority was her family. She was a cheerleader, always encouraging her husband, children, and grandchildren to be their very best. 

Mrs. Colwell also contributed much of her time volunteering at her children’s schools: assisting the teacher at Montessori School, organizing events and being “lunch lady” at St. Rose Elementary School in Chelsea and soliciting yearbook advertisements for Boston Latin School. 

Mrs. Colwell was a rock in her community, well-known and well-loved by so many people.

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