Maria Z. Zacharatos

Maria Zacharatos, 58, of Monroe Township passed away on Saturday, February 13, 2021 in Old Bridge.

Born in New Brunswick and raised in Edison, Maria settled in Monroe Township in 1998. She was a graduate of Kean University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in May 1996 and a Master of Arts in Behavioral Sciences/Psychological Services in August 1999. She then earned her Professional Diploma in Marriage and Family Therapy in August of 2002. She worked with foster children and couples in her practice with TheraCare and, she was also a caregiver for the ARC of Middlesex County before retiring in 2010. She showcased her talents with drawings, oil paintings and playing the piano. She loved music, especially Greek, classical and the era of the 60s through the 80s, as well as going to live concerts. She enjoyed taking care of all of her pets, traveling throughout Europe as well as some trips to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. Maria volunteered for the Alzheimer's Association, assisting the families of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Predeceased by her parents, Demetrios and Bessie Zacharatos and her brother Robert Kelley, she is survived by her companion of 30 years, Stephen Rand of Monroe Twp; her siblings Stella Zacharias and husband Pete, Basil Zacharatos and Theodora Zacharatos; her nieces and nephews, and; her feline friends, Trixie and Wilma and her fish, Lilly

Funeral services will begin at 10:30 AM, Saturday, February 20th from St. George Greek Orthodox Church on River Road, Piscataway. Interment will then follow in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, East Brunswick. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 19th, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Spotswood Funeral Home, 475 Main Street, Spotswood. A Panachida service will be held during the visitation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions placed on gatherings and activities, all current guidelines are to be observed during visitations, including the use of face coverings and social distancing.

In lieu of flowers, donations honoring Maria's memory may be made to the Monmouth County SPCA by clicking here.