Maria Angela "Murri" Anastasi Henderson, a lifelong educator and beloved wife of the late Dawnald Henderson, passed away on August 30, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on November 27, 1944, in Boston, MA, to Joseph J. Anastasi and Concetta R. D'Ambrosio Anastasi, Murri spent her early years in the close-knit North End neighborhood of Boston.

Murri graduated from Emmanuel College in 1966 with a major in Elementary Education and a minor in Psychology. She began her teaching career as a 5th-grade teacher at St. Catherine's in Somerville before joining the Boston Public Schools in the same capacity.

In 1970, Murri requested a sabbatical and enrolled in Northeastern University to pursue a master's degree in counseling. During her internship, she provided counseling to inmates at the Charles Street Jail, showcasing her dedication to helping others. After receiving her counseling degree, she did not return to the Boston Public Schools

Murri's passion for community service extended beyond education. She played a pivotal role in the creation of the North End Community Health Center and the North End Nursing Home. At the health center, she served as a mental health clinician, addressing the complex needs of the immigrant community. When the nursing home opened, Murri became the Director of Social Services, ensuring it remained the only bilingual (Italian/English) facility in the country, owned and operated by a Community Board. She was so proud that she was chosen to serve as  a delegate at the International Women's Conference in Houston Texas  in 1977, in observance of International Women's Year

Predeceased by her loving husband, Dawnald R. Henderson, and her parents, Concetta and Joseph Anastasi, Murri is survived by her sister-in-law Judith Walker of Boston, MA, devoted friend Elaine Lombardozzi of Boston, MA, long-time caregiver, and niece Nancy Carrizales of Chatham, NY, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Maria Anastasi Henderson will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to education, mental health, and community service. Her impact on the North End neighborhood and beyond will continue to resonate for generations. A memorial mass will be held Friday September 27 at  3:00pm from the St James R.C. Church Chatham. Inurnment will follow in the St James Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph's Indian School   PO Box 100 Chamberlain, South Dakota 57325. For on-line condolences, visit wenkfuneralhome.com