Mary Lewis Windle

Mary Lewis Windle

December 9, 1923~ July 12, 2020

Mary Lewis Windle was born to Portuguese immigrant parents Joseph and Mary-Gloria Moitoso Lewis on December 9, 1923 in Providence, Rhode Island. Mary lost both her Mother and Sister Irene in her early childhood. Attending Hope High School, she developed exceptional skills in dress making and handiwork; a gift which she continued to use throughout her life.

At the beginning of World War Two at the age of 18 Mary went to work in the Providence, R.I. Mika Plant, becoming a proud member of the “We Can Do It; Rosie the Riveter” workforce of “The Greatest Generation”.

In 1944 she met USS Naval C.P.O., Edward Snow Windle. After a three-month courtship, they were married on September 30th, 1944. They remained married over 65 years until Edward’s death in 2010. After their marriage Mary lived in New York City, Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Louisville, Kentucky before moving to California. While in Virginia Mary began a lifelong career with the United States Air Force in their Civil Service.

Mary and Ed bought a home in 1954 in Rialto, California. There she cultivation an extensive rose garden which remained a passion for decades. In the early 1960’s through the 1970’s Mary took an extended leave during which time she was a homemaker. After returning to Norton A.F.B. she worked for the Department Wellness/Recreation and also Architecture until her retirement in 1989. While at Norton A.F.B. she was recognized for her extended Outstanding Service and the family belonged to N.C.O. Club.

Mary leaves behind one daughter, Gloria Windle Moreland; and a son-in-law of over 35 years, Keith S. Moreland of Redlands, California. She also leaves two Grandchildren; K. Scott Moreland, Jr. (30) living in Sacramento, CA and Jennifer Marie Moreland (27) living in Dallas, Texas.

Mary and Ed were active with the University of Southern California’s Alpha Delta Pi Parent’s Club, enjoyed USC season football tickets for over 30 years, and attended games until the age of 86. Mary loved sweets and seldom missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren’s activities. Mary and Ed traveled the world in their retirement including visiting the Taj Mahal at the age of 80, and winning “Married the Longest” distinction on many cruise ships.

Upon the death of her husband, Mary moved to Redlands, California where she became a member of Pathway Church. She faithfully attended until the age of 95, and was recognized as their most Senior Mother for a number of years. Mary was a member of the PEO Sisterhood Chapter N, Order of the Eastern Star, and Plymouth Village’s Independent Living Community where she volunteered weekly. Mary entered the final stages of A.L.S. and moved to Wildwood Canyon Villas in Yucaipa where she received outstanding care and was loved by all for her tremendous class during this difficult last chapter of life.

Mary Windle passed away on July 12, 2020 at the age of 96. Mary embodied the meaning of “The Greatest Generation” and will be deeply missed by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of humility, character and integrity. Services will be Graveside with Mary being buried next to her husband of 65 years in the Military Honor Court of Montecito Memorial Park.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” John 3:16