A great lady has passed into eternal life. Maria Tabone, the wife of Dr. Censu Tabone, past President of Malta, died yesterday at the age of 98. Her husband died on March 14, 2012, also aged 98 – they were parents of 8 children, grandparents of 19 and great-grandparents of 38. Censu was also Malta’s most beloved politician, past President of the nation and above all a deeply devout and spiritual man. Behind every great man, there is always a strong woman who stays in the background, but whose influence can never be understated. The above photo shows him with his wife of 70 years, Maria and my mother on my 25th anniversary, June 19, 2002. A well-known ophthalmologist, he served in the military during World War II and entered politics at the age of 50. And Maria was the woman who stood by his side through thick and thin, in times of hardship and also on joyous occasions. They showed their greatness by their humility, never seeking attention.
Censu and Maria complimented each other all through their life. Censu the politician, Maria the simple housewife. Censu the Nation’s President, Maria the perfect domestic engineer. Censu the ophthalmologist, Maria with the sharp foresight to manage her huge household. Censu the courteous gentleman, Maria the ever gracious and hospitable lady. Censu, always unassuming, Maria resilient and the symbol of perseverance. Censu the respected father, Maria the loving and doting mother. Censu the hobbyist clock-repairer, Maria the chef, the cake decorator. Censu the dispenser of spiritual values, Maria, the devout and reverent role-model. Censu the humble statesman who mingled with the likes of Bush and Gorbachev and St John Paul II, Maria the kind neighbor who mingled with Cetta and Mari, with Dolor and Sunta, with Karmni and Felicia. Rest in Peace with your beloved Censu, dear Maria. Your work is finished here on earth, but your presence will surely embellish the halls of heaven.
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