Mary Polen

Mary Ellen (Lewis) Polen was born in Washington D.C. on July 25, 1934 to Allen and Mayblossom Jennings Lewis. Their family life was filled with enriching activities planned by their mother for those weekends when their father was on call serving as a Washington, D.C. fireman. Mary Ellen enjoyed nature walks, art lessons, studying piano and violin, swimming, and visiting museums. Her family faithfully attended church on Sundays and Wednesdays. All of these experiences laid a strong foundation for becoming an outstanding woman of God.

Bill and Mary Ellen were married at Mount Vernon Place Methodist Church on June 27, 1953 and entered American University as a young married sophomore couple. Mary Ellen graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. They made their first home in Kensington, Maryland and later moved the family to Potomac, Maryland. Together they built a Christ-centered home and were devotedly married for over 63 years. They were so proud to be blessed with four wonderful children and seven delightful grandchildren. Mary Ellen loved gardening, giving generously to others, gospel music, and is best known for playing her own beautiful piano arrangements of hymns.

When she lost her loving husband Bill, Mary Ellen held fast to her deep Christian faith and found great comfort knowing that she would be reunited with her loved ones in her heavenly home.

Mary Ellen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was deeply loved and respected by all. Most importantly, she loved her family and especially her grandchildren. In recent years, she enjoyed hosting weekly dinners for her grandchildren and their friends.

Mary Ellen remained physically active and intellectually sharp throughout her lifetime. She was a friend to all, kind to everyone, and “never met a stranger.” Neighbors often commented that she was the most kind person they had ever known. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Mary Ellen appreciated the work of the Central Union Mission, helping homeless people in downtown Washington, DC. She supported their work. If you are interested, you can honor Mary Ellen by making a donation to the Mission either by going on line: www.missiondc.org Or by calling them at 202-MISSION.

Children

Samuel William Polen III and wife Angela

Deborah Ann Pitman and husband Wendell

Sharon Rebecca Moyer and husband Tom

Grandchildren

Matthew James Moyer

Daniel William Moyer

Bethany Ann Moyer

Catherine Rebecca Moyer

Stephen Thomas Moyer

Sarah Elizabeth Polen

David William Polen

Predeceased by

Her loving husband of 63 years, Samuel William Polen Jr.

And Cherished Loved Ones

Son, John Robert Polen

Sister, Edna Mae Calhoun

Brother, Allen Lewis

Infant Brother