Mary Margret Fonseka

Mary Margret Fonseka, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed peacefully to eternal life on March 18, 2024 after a brief illness. During her 68 years, she touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Born in Colombo, Sri Lanka, her life was a remarkable journey that spanned continents and touched countless lives. With a heart full of compassion and a spirit of adventure, she ventured beyond her homeland to transverse the globe, embracing diverse cultures and serving as a caregiver to children from all walks of life.

Her path led her to the homes of sheiks, diplomats, and everyday people, and everywhere she went bestowed warmth, care and an infectious smile that generated her a special place in the hearts of those who knew her. Her travels begin in Kuwait, accompanying a family with whom she also toured Europe and Asia. Her time in Kuwait intersected with the beginning of the Persian Gulf War where she was a firsthand witness to the Iraqi invasion and Desert Storm operations. During that period, she took refuge in an underground bunker illuminated only by candlelight and provisioned with limited supplies. No matter the situation or location Margret's resilience and sense of humor shone through, offering comfort and good cheer to those around her.

Eventually, Margaret arrived in Northern Virginia, where she crafted a beautiful life surrounded by cherished family and friends. A devoted member of St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church, Margaret drew strength from her faith, finding a sense of belonging and community among her fellow worshippers. Additionally, she actively participated in the vibrant Sri Lankan community of the DMV and valued its warmth and camaraderie greatly. She attained U.S. citizenship and purchased a home of her own - milestones that reflected her perseverance and tireless work ethic. Most notably, Margret's dedication to the children she nurtured was truly exceptional. Today, those children have grown into grateful adults who still maintain a deep connection with her that has endured many years.

Margret is survived by her beloved son, Dinesh H. Wijethunga, and cherished granddaughters, Senuri and Riley. She was also blessed with a large and loving extended family, including six siblings, each of whom held a unique place in her heart: Rose Fonseka, Beatrice Fonseka, Dina Ahrens, Priyankara Fonseka, Tyron Fonseka, and Roshan Fonseka. As a further testament to her lifetime dedication to family, during all of her years working abroad, Margaret quietly helped to support her widowed mother and the education of her younger siblings.

During her illness, Margret was fortunate to have the steadfast support of her family, especially her youngest sister, Dina Ahrens. Dina selflessly dedicated herself to Margret's care, providing comfort, companionship, and unwavering love. Her devotion and compassion were a source of strength for Margret and a testament to the deep bond shared between siblings.

Funeral arrangements are as follows:

Viewing: Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at Murphy's Funeral Home, 4510 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA on Sunday, March 24, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Requiem Mass: A Requiem Mass will be held at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church, 1910 N. Randolph Street, Arlington, VA on Monday, March 25, at 11:00 AM. All are welcomed.

Reception: Immediately following the Requiem Mass, a reception will be held in the St. Agnes Parish Hall (adjacent to the Church), where all friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate Margret's life, share memories, and support one another.

Internment: The internment will take place at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA following the reception and is estimated to commence at 2PM. All are welcomed.

In lieu of other tributes, the family kindly requests that those who wish to express their condolences consider contributing towards floral arrangements to adorn the funeral home during the service. Your gesture would honor Margret's love for flowers and bring comfort to all who gather to remember her. Donations can be made directly to Murphy's Funeral Home for this purpose.