Jeanne Mitchler-Fiks

Jeanne Mitchler-Fiks, Psychotherapist and Psychiatric Social Worker, who had a private practice for more than forty years and also served for many years as Director and Program Manager of Social Services at United Community, in Alexandria, VA, died peacefully at Sibley Hospital in Washington, D.C., with family at her side on 3 January 2023. She was 86.

Jeanne Mitchler-Fiks was a native of Washington, D.C. She graduated from St. Joseph College in Emmitsville, MD, in 1957. She received her Master’s Degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C.

Jeanne Mitchler-Fiks committed her life to helping people. She was at the forefront of mental health care for over fifty-five years, specializing in the treatment of alcoholism and dying with dignity.

She was an avid proponent of health and wellness techniques including meditation, vitamin E treatment with radiation therapy and the use of relaxation sound tapes and mantras to facilitate healing. She was also a speaker, a trainer and a mentor. Her commitment to her clients and families at UC was ever present.

She was a philanthropist to numerous charities and nonprofits that supported both people in need and also endangered or suffering animals.

She served on the Washington Board of Young Concert Artists, sponsoring young, aspiring musicians from around the world. Her other memberships included the Cosmos Club and she was a dedicated member of Epiphany Episcopal Church.

She was an avid world traveler with a special love for Venice, Italy. Even when mobility became difficult, she would not let that stop her travels. She also enjoyed photography and loved to continue learning and perfecting her skill with photography travel-tours.

Jeanne Mitchler-Fiks was a beloved treasure to the community and to her family. She spent many years as companion and confidant to Dr. Thomas A. Mathews, who predeceased her.

She is survived by her two step-children, Leslie Fiks and Erik Fiks and his wife, Ana; two grandsons and five great-grandchildren; her sisters, Eileen Martin and Dianne Duvall and their spouses; five nieces and nephews and nine great nieces and nephews; as well as many, many friends.

Jeanne Mitchler-Fiks was and will continue to be an inspiration to all those she leaves behind. A Funeral Mass will be held at Epiphany Episcopal Church 1317 G St. NW Washington, DC on Sunday March 19th, 2023 at 1:30pm, with a reception to follow.