Maria Elizabeth Goode Bowens, of Boston, Massachusetts, passed away on September 17, 2026, at the age of 73.

Maria was born on October 13, 1952, to the late Frederick Goode and Maria Fernandes Monteiro Goode. Raised in Boston, she carried with her throughout her life a deep love for family, learning, dance, creativity, and community connection. She attended Ursuline Academy in Dedham, Massachusetts (Class of 1970), and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education / Specialization in Early Childhood Education from Lesley University (Class of 1974). She continued her studies at Columbia University, where she earned a Master of Science in Dance Education (Class of 1977), preparing for a career that reflected her essence, her generous heart and nurturing spirit.

Maria was a devoted educator who shared her gifts with children in schools in Brookline, Newton, Wellesley, Roxbury and Wayland, Massachusetts, as well as in Palm Springs, California. She served on the Adjunct Faculty at Antioch University New England where she taught the next generation of teachers in the Multicultural Studies Program. Teaching was more than a profession to her — it was one of the many ways she expressed her kindness, patience, and belief in others. She also brought joy to many through dance, another of her great passions. A talented dancer and choreographer, Maria created dance programs for both adults and children and taught dance at Brookline High School, inspiring others with her creativity and love of movement.

In 1974, Maria married Monte Alan Bowens, who preceded her in death. Together they had two children, Krietta Kai Bowens (Jones) and Lacey Alan Bowens, who were among the greatest joys of her life.

Maria had a special way of bringing warmth and light wherever she went. She loved beauty in all its forms — in music, in poetry, in movement, and most especially in the people she loved. She was often the first one on the dance floor, full of energy and joy, inviting others to join in and celebrate life alongside her. She also had a gift for words and wrote poetry that she shared with family and friends, offering them little pieces of her heart. And as a true Boston sports fan, she cheered faithfully for the New England Patriots and especially her beloved Boston Celtics.

Maria is survived by her children, Krietta (Terrence) and Lacey; her grandchildren, Jayden Bowens, Nora Jones, and Keith Jones; her mother, Maria Fernandes Monteiro Goode; her sister, Josephine Watson; her nephews, Trevor Watson, True See Allah, and Joseph Efezokhae; and many cousins and loved ones.

Maria was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. She will be remembered for her strength, her warmth, her joyful spirit, and the love she gave so freely. Her family and friends will hold close the memory of her laughter, her grace, her creativity, and the way she made life brighter simply by being in it.