Mary Elizabeth Arber

Mary Elizabeth Arber, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024 at the age of 88. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Mary was the daughter of William and Beatrice Retzer and graduated from Mt. St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was a bright and dedicated student who skipped the 8th grade, an early sign of her exceptional intellect and determination. After graduation, she was employed by NASA in Cleveland, Ohio, where she worked as a mathematician and computer programmer. During her time at NASA, Mary played a key role in the development of fuel for the Gemini flights, contributing to the historic space exploration efforts.

Mary’s career at NASA was cut short when she married the love of her life, Arthur Kevin Arber, on April 4, 1959. They moved to Warrenton, Virginia, where Arthur was stationed with the U.S. Navy. Later, they settled in Savage, Maryland, where Mary’s passion for community involvement blossomed. She became deeply engaged in local politics, serving as president of the Savage Civic Association and playing a pivotal role in improving and protecting her community.

Mary was devoted to her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She had many interests, including reading, birdwatching, collecting Hummels, and following football. Known for her independent spirit, she resolutely lived life on her own terms and will be remembered for her unwavering strength, love for her family, and commitment to making the world a better place.

She was preceded in death by her son, David William Arber, and her husband, Arthur Kevin Arber. Mary is survived by her children, Susan Marie Crabtree and her husband Donald “Gene” of Cambellsville, KY and Kevin James Arber and his wife Teresa “Teri” of Apollo Beach, FL; her grandchildren, Kevin Arber, Kathleen Fishel, John Arber, Michael and Matthew Guy; and her great-grandchildren, Luke, Emmett, Tucker, and Zoey Fishel, Kevin and Eleanor Arber, Kaiden Mattingly, and Sophia Guy. Mary is also survived by her two brothers, William and Robert Retzer.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park, Inc. 7250 Washington Blvd., Elkridge, Maryland 21075 (Exit 6 South off Route 100) on Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 10:00am to 12:00pm at which time a Catholic Prayer Service will begin. Interment in Meadowridge Memorial Park immediately following.