Marie L. Rosso, 89

Marie L. Rosso, a teacher and artist who was a longtime Springs resident, died on May 3 at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital after an extended illness. She was 89.

A woman whose family described her as having an adventurous spirit, she had traveled extensively, especially enjoying the art of Turkey, Morocco, and Mexico.

She was born Dec. 31, 1928, in Buffalo, one of eight half brothers and sisters, whom she helped raise and put through college. She received an undergraduate degree at the State University at Buffalo and a master’s in studio art from Ohio State University. She went on to become a teacher at Hunter College Elementary School in New York City. 

A passionate educator, she rose to head its art and music departments, a highlight of her career. She also loved cooking, especially with the renowned chef Pierre Franey and his wife, Betty Franey, who lived in Springs. 

In the 1960s, Ms. Rosso designed and helped build a house on a Three Mile Harbor estuary that became her summer residence. She also pursued several local business interests, at one time owning  a marina, several cottages, and a tennis court on the estuary, off Gann Road. 

Ms. Rosso loved going to the beach, sailing in a boat she called Carpe Diem, and fishing, swimming, and clamming. She was an enthusiastic gardener and loved entertaining at her waterfront house.

After retiring, Ms. Rosso settled at Three Mile Harbor year round and continued to develop her artistic gifts as a painter. She served as president of the East Hampton Artists Alliance and an officer of the Springs Improvement Society. During the winter months, she had vacationed in Cancun, Mexico.

Visitors will be welcomed at the Yardley and Pino Funeral Home in East Hampton on Saturday from noon to 1 p.m., with a memorial service to follow there until about 2:15 p.m. Burial at Cedar Lawn Cemetery on Cooper Lane in East Hampton will follow. 

Ms. Rosso’s family has suggested donations in her memory to Guild Hall, 158 Main Street, East Hampton 11937.