Mary Ethel Wilkins-Lee

On Tuesday, March 2, 2021, Mary transitioned after a long illness. Mary was the loving, devoted “Ma” to Michele Nicole and Monica Yvette whom she raised to be strong, caring and resilient women. She was “Nana” to her grandson, Jayden, who was the delight of her life, and shared her passion for professional wrestling.

Mary was born in Washington D.C. to Garris Wilkins and Minnie Gregory Wilkins on August 20, 1955. She graduated from D.C.’s McKinley Tech and from West Virginia State University where she was a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. Mary spent her 40-year career at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce where she started as an administrative clerk and held positions of increasing responsibility until she retired in December 2017 as the Executive Assistant to the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Mary was known for her illuminating smile, infectious laugh and the ability to solve any problem. Her desk was a gathering place for colleagues from across the organization who sought her wise counsel and kindness.

Mary was a woman of many interests. She loved historical romance novels, all thing Star Trek (never Star Wars), the Washington Football Team, hats, a bushel of crabs, and a cold bottle of beer. She enjoyed traveling, particularly her trips to North Carolina to see family, summer vacations with her girls and her special adventure to the British Isles where she visited as many castles as possible.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Michele Lee and Monica Lee, grandson Jayden Butler, her brothers Rodney Wilkins and Maurice Wilkins and the many family members and friends who loved her deeply. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Gary Timothy Wilkins.

In keeping with Mary’s wishes and her desire to make sure her grandson got the best education possible. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jayden's College Fund at https://www.gofundme.com/f/2yzk7b-jaydens-college-fund, for those who are interested.