Mary Catherine Williams

Mary Williams passed away peacefully, at home, at the age of 97, on June 25, 2019. She and her husband had lived in Northern Virginia since 1952, when James, an Air Force veteran, was stationed at Fort Meyer, VA. They moved from North Springfield to Lakeridge in 1971.

Mary was predeceased by her husband of 45 years, James Williams, in 1996. She was the oldest of five, and predeceased by all four siblings: Rose, Carmen, Nancy and Janet. Born prematurely at seven months, weighing a little over three pounds, Mary was a survivor from the start, and never changed. Her four children, Kathy (Jerry), Sandy, Scott (Marci), and Cynthia (Lowell), gave her 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Since 1997, Mary has been living with her daughter Cynthia, son-in-law Lowell, and four grandchildren. She often attributed her long life to being blessed with their loving care and attention.

If asked for her definition of enjoyment, Mary would answer, “time with my kids, grandkids and great grandkids”, as each one brought great joy to her heart. She was an avid gardener in her early years, and loved her weekly Bingo later in life. It was through her Bingo that Mary met and maintained many important friendships through the years.
Being part of what is considered “The Greatest Generation”, Mary had seen almost 100 years of life. She was born the same year radio began regular broadcasting, lived through the Great Depression, World War II, the first movie with sound, introduction of phones in every home and highways spread across the nation, commercial air travel, the invention of television, computers, space exploration, smart phones, and much much more…she saw it all! Mary had an endless collection of interesting stories from her long life that no one ever tired of hearing. What an amazing life she had!

Another important piece of “that which was Mary”, was the perseverance, determination and resilience she maintained through the tough times in life. Her faith in God was not displayed publicly, or even outwardly, but was revealed instead during quiet talks and in brave actions, throughout her long life.

Along with love of family and friends, Mary had great appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities found in the United States. She had great respect for all who have served and fought to protect them. She will be buried with her husband at Quantico Marine Corp Base.

There will be a visitation held at Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home 13318 Occoquan Road Woodbridge, VA on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 from 10am until the start of the service at 11am. Interment to follow at Quantico National Cemetery.