Mary Elizabeth Stanton

Mary Elizabeth Stanton, 63, of Alexandria, Virginia passed away on May 16, 2019 after a brave battle with cancer. Mary was born in Santa Clara, California on February 11, 1956, and was raised with three brothers by her loving father, William McKinley. She married her husband Michael Stanton in 1979, supporting him throughout his Navy career, and even becoming an enlisted ombudsman responsible for getting sailors and their families the help they needed while Navy ships were deployed. Her husband’s career took them across the country, and upon his retirement they made their home in the state of Virginia. Mary was very protective of her family and always ensured that her two daughters, Kellie and Katie, were well cared for. She also leaves behind her brother, Bill Wood, who resides in Mississippi. Through her forty years of work as an exceptional pre-school teacher and early childhood educator, Mary mentored hundreds of parents and had a positive impact on the lives of countless young children. She was kind and would put the welfare of others ahead of herself in many instances throughout her life. She always knew just what to say and do to help a child or a parent in need, and her loving spirit and her passion for education will be carried on by the many families and fellow teachers who knew her, particularly from Gymboree Play & Music. The Stanton family would especially like to thank everyone from Inova Fairfax Hospital who cared for Mary and who supported us in our time of need. Mary’s big heart was witnessed by the multitude of nurses and doctors treating her, when she would make sure to say they were amazing and that she loved them. The Gymboree Play & Music in Alexandria will also host an event in coming weeks for the many families Mary knew throughout her career. Please contact [email protected] for more detail.