Mary Ann Lancaster

After a long, joy-filled life, Mary Ann (Woods) Lancaster transitioned peacefully on Thursday, July 14 at home in Springfield, Virginia. She was born 1 March 1930 in Parsons, Kansas, and grew up in Parsons where she developed many dear friendships that she kept in touch with all her life. She was a graduate of The Hockaday School in Dallas, TX and the University of Kansas. At 20 years of age Mary Ann moved across the country where she married Robert “Bob” W. Lancaster in 1952, beginning 25 adventurous years as a Navy wife. Her many adventures included 18 moves with the US Navy across the US and abroad, all while raising 5 children. She was an avid cheerleader for Navy sports (Beat Army!), KU basketball (Rock Chalk Jayhawk), and the various sports taken up by her children. She had many passions including reading, knitting, sewing, needlepoint, jigsaw puzzles and the spoiling of many dogs and cats throughout her lifetime. Many have described Mary Ann as a very special and remarkable woman - she was sincerely loved by all that knew her. She had a great sense of humor with a sharp wit, wonderful smile, and took a keen interest in anyone that crossed her path. Mary Ann is survived by her brother James W. Woods of Lawrence, KS; sons Michael (Cindy) of Bristow, Virginia, and Mark (Carolyn) of Johns Island, SC; daughters Susan (Charles) Thuma of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Julie of Centreville, Virginia; 5 grandchildren (Elizabeth, Melissa, Robert, Claire, Catherine); and 5 great grandchildren (Landon, Mason, Charlotte, Bryce, Brodie). Mary Ann was predeceased by her husband Robert, daughter Patricia, and brother Tom. She will be greatly missed. An Open House Remembrance for Mary Ann will be held on Saturday, July 29th 2-5pm at her home, 7754 Carrleigh Pkwy, Springfield VA The funeral service will be at Arlington National Cemetery where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, the service is currently expected for early 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of the following charities that Mary Ann supported throughout her life: American Cancer Society, American Red Cross, Humane Society of Fairfax County, Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter.