Mary Ann Paturis

Mary Ann’s story was unique from the very beginning. Born in Elkins, West Virginia, 100% Greek and meant to be named Marianna, a nurse unfamiliar with Greek names instead recorded her as Mary Ann—without a middle name. It was an early sign of a life that would always be just a little unconventional, and unmistakably her own.

Growing up in a small town, Mary Ann sometimes spoke of the challenges of being a Greek girl, but she also formed lifelong friendships that reflected her warmth and resilience. She later moved to Washington, D.C., where she met the love of her life at church. Their romance was swift and certain: engaged in three weeks, married three months later at St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, and married for 61 years.

Mary Ann lived a life full of energy and connection. She worked in association management for organizations including the American Society for Public Administration and the Marine Technology Society, planning events that brought her into contact with remarkable people—from Jacques Cousteau to members of the Washington Redskins. She was equally active as a volunteer, chairing major charity events and co-founding the Dominion Guild to support local causes. Above all, she devoted herself to St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, serving as President of the Philoptochos Society. The women of the church became her closest circle and a lasting source of friendship, faith, and support.

Mary Ann never met a stranger. She was a natural storyteller and connector, filling rooms with conversation and laughter. That same spirit defined her as a mother and grandmother. She loved family gatherings around the table, red wine, card games, and shared traditions. She delighted in being a grandmother to two granddaughters, embracing shopping trips, tea parties, manicures, and holidays. One treasured tradition was the family’s annual Christmas trip to New York City, a joyful ritual that continued even after she could no longer travel. Family trips, long car rides, and shared adventures—often with Mary Ann at the center of the humor—created memories that will last a lifetime.

In December 2013, Mary Ann’s life took a difficult turn following what was meant to be routine surgery, leading to years of physical and mental challenges. Those years do not define her. They remind us that life is complex and that grace matters. In the end, her family was grateful to focus on the many good memories and to share words of love and peace.

Mary Ann is now reunited with her family who went before her and is finally at rest. She will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, faith, humor, and the way she made people feel known and welcome.