Maria Dolores Andino

Maria Dolores Andino, affectionately known as Mary, was born on July 31, 1935, in Cayey, Puerto Rico. She was married in 1954 to Adan Andino-Pratts. After a fulfilling life dedicated to her family and her faith, Mary passed peacefully into God’s hands on January 1, 2026, in Palm Beach County, Florida.

Mary’s professional journey began as a family planning educator in New York. Following her relocation to Florida, she dedicated her career to teaching elementary school in the western Palm Beach areas of Belle Glade and Pahokee. She continued to share her love for education long after her retirement, serving as a substitute teacher until 2023. Additionally, her thirst for knowledge led her to further her education even after becoming a grandmother. She attended Florida Atlantic University, where she graduated, surrounded by the unwavering support of her family.

Throughout her life, Mary was a pillar in her community, renowned for her deep commitment to building a Godly legacy not only within her family but also as an elder and church leader. She loved to sing and was known to be an excellent pianist. She shared her talents as a piano instructor and choir director at her church for decades. Pioneering the translation of songs from English to Spanish, she enabled her groups to embrace contemporary music when it was still an emerging practice. Mary’s passions extended beyond music; she also enjoyed gardening, crocheting, and knitting, traveling, and indulging in her favorite pastime of shopping.

Mary is survived by her two daughters, Elisa Mercedes Cronan and her husband Michael, and Nora Hilda Romero. She is also cherished by her seven grandchildren: Maggie Louis and her husband Rodney, Elinor Henderson and her husband Robert, Adam Cronan and his wife Michaela, Mark Cronan and his wife Tosha, Heather Zimmon and her husband Adam, Robert Romero with his fiancée Neidys, and Ryan Romero and his wife Cristina. Additionally, she leaves behind twelve GREAT-grandchildren and four GREAT-GREAT-grandchildren who will carry on her loving spirit.

Mary was predeceased by her husband of 70 years, Adan Andino-Pratts. Also recently by her son-in-law, Robert Romero, Sr.

Her proudest accomplishments centered around leading and mentoring others in the Christian faith, a testament to her lifelong dedication to serving others and cultivating meaningful relationships.

A memorial gathering will be held in her honor on January 27, 2026, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, followed by a memorial service from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Palms West Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. in Royal Palm Beach, FL. A graveside service will take place later that day from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM at South Florida National Cemetery in Wellington, FL. There will be a repast reception immediately following at the Royal Palm Commons Park Event Building at 11600 Poinciana Blvd, Royal Palm Beach.

Maria Dolores Andino will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Her legacy of love, faith, and compassion will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.