Mary Alice Loster

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Ray; her parents, Dwight L. and Mary E. Fulk Layman; her brothers, James "Jim" and Joseph "Joe"; her brother-in-law, James Castner; and her nephew, William "Bill".

She is survived by her sons, Donald (Karen) and Michael (Tasha); her grandson, Daniel; and her siblings, Ruth Castner, Bimpy (Becka), and Charlie (Belinda). She is also survived by her nephew, Dan (Stacy), and many cherished friends, including Ray Powers and Darlene.

Mary married Ray in 1966, and they moved to Richmond, VA. Their first son, Donald, was born in 1967. They enjoyed a full family life in the east end of Richmond, spending many fun summers by their pool. In 1979, the family moved to Chesterfield, where their second son, Michael, was born in 1980.

Being a wife and mother was Mary's primary goal in life, a sentiment she expressed in her graduation booklet. She possessed an easygoing manner and a warm heart, always welcoming guests and family alike with open arms. She handled the "hijinks" of teenage boys and their friends with patience and grace, always remembering what it was like to be young. Mary took pride in her immaculate home and loved decorating for the holidays and hosting family gatherings.

Mary and Ray enjoyed a vibrant social life as active members of the Manchester Moose Lodge, where they loved dances, live music, socializing, and costume parties. Mary, a talented pianist from a young age, served as the official pianist for the WOM for many years. They embarked on many travel adventures, from California to New Orleans, Key West, and Mexico. Mary continued to travel later in life, enjoying trips out west with her son Michael and beach trips with family.

Throughout her career, Mary held various jobs, primarily in car dealerships, before joining the Chesterfield Court System. She retired as a deputy clerk of the General District Court in Chesterfield Co.

Mary was a devoted animal lover and had many pets over the years. She especially cherished her cockatiel, Sally, who was her companion for over 20 years. They both loved music, and Mary would often play Sally's favorites on the sun porch, including the Grateful Dead on Saturday mornings and bluegrass on Sunday mornings.

The family will receive friends from 2-3 PM on July 11, 2025, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 3 PM at Woody Funeral Home- Huguenot Chapel, 1020 Huguenot Rd. Midlothian, VA 23113.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to family and friends for their support during this difficult time.