Maria Gina Youngs(nee Marrone), 66, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2007 in Cape Coral, surrounded by her loving family. She was born December 26, 1941 in Bitonto, Italy where she lived until she was 9. She came to America with her family and settled in Bethpage, NY, where she learned to speak English and excelled in school. Always a hard worker, Maria and her brothers and sister worked industriously to help their parent's family business. After getting her associates degree, Maria was introduced to Richard Youngs. They were married in 1969, the year they moved to Delmar, upstate New York. Maria and Rich owned and operated a Carvel ice-cream store, and had two children, Gina and Melina. Maria has lived in Cape Coral since 1982. She was an outgoing, sensitive, generous woman, who worked tirelessly to make sure those around her were happy and taken care of. Selfless and full of love, Maria neglected her own personal needs and sacrificed constantly for the good of others. Maria was an avid animal lover, giving much love to her beloved cat "Annie" and also feeding birds and stray cats. She was dependable and was always there when needed, giving all she had to all she loved. She was a strong believer in God, and prayed for guidance. She survived much hardship-most recently losing her Sunset Towers apartment to Hurricane Charley. Maria was tough and so strong, and an inspiration to all fortunate enough to know her.She will be forever missed by daughter, Dr. Melina A.(Francis)Esquerre, daughter Dr. Gina M. Youngs, Maria's former husband and close companion, Richard H. Youngs, brothers Herb(Ann)Marrone, Ben(Ann)Marrone and Frank(Ann) Marrone. Maria also leaves behind many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her mother, Carmela Marrone, her father, Luigi Marrone, her sister, Melina Centrone, and her brother Jim Marrone Her beloved companion, cat "Annie," will be adopted by daughter Gina. Arrangements by the Metz Chapel of Harvey-Engelhardt-Metz Funeral Homes and Crematory, Cape Coral.