Marie G. Rust

Marie G. Rust of Sarasota, FL., Retired Regional Director for the U.S. National Park Service died Thursday, February 13, 2025 at Dr.'s Hospital in Sarasota.  She was 86.  The daughter of the late Joseph and Caroline Tammaro Gagliardi, Marie was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on April 26, 1938. 

Survivors include her nephew Joseph Gagliardi and his wife Susan of Atlanta, GA., her Great niece Maria Gagliardi Badger and her husband Jonathan Badger of Spring Hill, TN., and their children, Delaney and Daxton Badger, and Great nephew Joseph Gagliardi of Sharpsburg, GA.  Her Step children David Crosson of Philadelphia, PA.,  and Julia Crosson Huntley and her husband Joshua Huntley, and their daughter Jalena Huntley, of Wernersville, PA.  Marie was predeceased by her late husband, Thomas Crosson.  

Marie retired from the U.S. National Park Service as the NorthEast Regional Director.  Some of Marie's accomplishments included the refurbishing of the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island restoration and improvements.  

Ms. Rust was also instrumental with the creation of the 911 Memorial in Shanksville, PA., to honor the 40 victims of Flight 93.  Marie was also an advisor to the creation of Animal Kingdom at Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL. 

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.  Interment will be at Prairie Creek Conservancy Cemetery in Gainesville, FL.  At Marie's bequest, donations in her name can be made to the National Parks Foundation, or the American Heart Association.   Arrangements by Farley Funeral Homes, Venice, FL.