Mary Wallingford

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Leonie “Lee” Wallingford (Oschwald) who left us for her eternal home on February 7, 2025. Lee was born on May 5, 1939, in Syracuse, NY, and was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend to many.

Lee was a passionate creative, known for her love of fiber and textile arts, to include quilting, crocheting, knitting, and beading. She spent countless hours on her craft, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and comfort to those that are proud owners of her beautiful creations. Her quilts were not just pieces of fabric, but stories woven with care and creativity, cherished by all who received them. Lee was an active member of the quilting community, where she shared her passion and inspired many. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, including her close circle of sweet quilting friends, the self-proclaimed Glory Bees.

Lee was preceded in death by her mother, Florence “Flossie” Oschwald (Fowler); father, Harry Oschwald; and sister, Helen Bischof (Oschwald).

Lee is survived by her two sons, David Wallingford (Sandie) of Canal Winchester, Ohio, and John Wallingford (Roberta) of Stafford, Virginia; her grandchildren: Sarah (Michael), Mary Kate, and Jack (Fiona), step grandchildren Heidi (Todd), and Robert (Kristi); and great grandchildren and step great grandchildren: Matthew, Owen, Samantha, Sydney, and Annslee.

A Celebration of Lee’s Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 11-1 at 718 Venue, located at 718 Caroline St. in downtown Fredericksburg, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Quilt Alliance, a nonprofit organization established in 1993 whose mission is to document, preserve, and share American quilt heritage. Or donations can be made to the Virginia Quilt Museum, a nonprofit organization founded in 1995 whose mission is to cultivate and preserve the quilting arts in Virginia.

“I have places to go, and people to be.” Lee Wallingford