Alison Bean Birney

Alison Bean Birney, age 95, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at her home in Northwest Washington, DC. Born on August 26, 1929 in Washington, Alison was the daughter of Edna and Rodney Bean.

Ally, as she was known by her many friends, grew up on O Street in Georgetown with her mother and her aunt Helen. She attended the Potomac School (Class of 1944) and graduated from the Madeira School (1947). After graduation from Vassar College (1951), she taught Latin for several years at the Potomac School and married Arthur Birney who predeceased her.

She spent most of her summers on Lake George in upstate New York, and was never more happy than swimming in the lake at West Meadow and later at the family’s home, “Glistening Waters”.

Alison was known for her dedication to the community. She volunteered with many organizations such as the Junior League, the St. Alban’s Mother’s Board (Chairman of the Little Sanctuary Altar Guild), the Herb Cottage on the Cathedral Close, Board of All Hallows Guild of the National Cathedral, Homemaker Health Aide Service, the House of Mercy at Rosemount Center, Recording For the Blind and Dyslexic, and Vassar Alumni among others. She was also a member of the Four Seasons Garden Club, the Sulgrave Club and the Chevy Chase Club.

She is survived by her three sons, Lex, Rodney, and Charlie, her five grandchildren, Helen, Alaina, Taran, Isabel and Dion, and two great-grandchildren, Lexi and Jillian. Many wonderful hours were spent reading aloud to her children and grandchildren. Alison’s memory is treasured by her numerous friends and extended family members.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and hospice staff at Capital Caring for their exceptional care and support during this difficult time.

A private service will be held at St. John’s on June 14th.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Vassar College in Alison’s name.