In Loving Memory of Marija Desabota (1934 – 2024)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Marija Desabota at the age of 90, on January 23, 2025. She was a source of endless love, wisdom, caring, graceful and warmth to all who knew her.

Born on July 24,1934 in Soline, Dugi Otok, in Croatia, Marija Desabota dedicated her life to her family, nurturing and caring for everyone around her. Known for her kindness, her unwavering faith, and her remarkable strength, Marija Desabota had a gentle spirit that made everyone feel welcome. She was infamous for saying "dušo moja" (my darling) to the loved ones around her.

She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing stories, offering sage advice, and, most of all, showering them with affection. Her love for her family was boundless, and she leaves behind a legacy of compassion and devotion.

In her quiet moments, Marija Desabota enjoyed playing card game Briškula i Trešeta with her friends and family, and loved putting together complex puzzles which she then posted them in her house's basement wall. She had a gift for making everyone feel special and loved, no matter the circumstances. Her faith was a constant in her life, and she found great comfort in her Catholic faith.

Marija Desabota is survived by her son Ante Desabota, granddaughter Pamela High, son-in-law Zoran Perin, grandson-in-law Eric High, great-grandchildren Brianna High and Lucas High, grandson-in-law Chris Korzun, great-grandchildren Christian Korzun and Noah Korzun, nieces Zorica Majic, Dragica Grizelj, Mira Samara, Meri Main, Svetka Skific, Branka Baric, Mary Desabota, and nephew Robert Marin and Anthony Desabota. She was predeceased by her loving husband Marijan Desabota, beautiful hearted daughter Tereza Perin, kind and charming grandson Christopher Desabota and beautiful and caring granddaughter Jasmine Korzun. While we will miss her deeply, we take comfort knowing that her spirit will forever remain in our hearts and she will join our family members in heaven that have predeceased her.

A service celebrating her life will be held on January 31, 2025, a viewing at 10am-11am and church service thereafter at 11am-12pm, at Saint Anthony Catholic Church, 820 Marcum Rd., Lakeland, FL 33809. UPDATE: Here is the link to the church service recording for https://saintacc.com/archived-masses -select Archived Masses, click the Arrow > sign in the center of StreamSpot window, click Previous Broadcasts button, and enter Marija in the Search Window and finally click the video to view the mass recording.