Mary E. Winchester

Mary E. Winchester VIRGINIA BEACH - Beloved and missed by all, Mary Dean Edens Winchester, 75, passed away March 4, 2009, of pneumonia and complications of ALS. She entered this world Jan. 12, 1934, in Oolenoy, S.C., (near Six Mile, S.C.). Equally, she belonged to both communities of Six Mile and Virginia Beach. In this manner, she obtained her education in the nearby Furman University in Greenville, S.C., as well as locally, at both Old Dominion University and the University of Virginia. Shortly after finishing her Bachelor of Arts at Furman University, Mary Dean married Kenneth P. Winchester, colonel (retired U.S. Army Signal Corps). Their marriage spanned an amazing 55 years. As a teacher for more than 30 years, she taught at public school systems of Virginia Beach and South Carolina. Having a passion for the subjects she taught; avidly, rigorously, and brilliantly she educated both her family and students alike in oceanography, geology and earth sciences. Equally, she eagerly taught Sunday School classes at several churches. Also she taught GED classes for the military during her husband's career as an officer. In addition, most recently, Mary Dean participated in the Garden Club of the Greater Kempsville, Megabucks investment club, a book club and many other activities. Having a profound interest in gardening, where many wonderful hours were spent, traveling, visiting many countries and national parks, painting and crafts, with many wonderful works produced, and needlework and countless other activities that spanned over a lifetime, she kept very busy. Most of all, however, she cherished her grandchildren with more love than imaginable. Mary Dean devoted her life to her husband, Kenneth P. Winchester, as well as three loving sons, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, family and friends. Her beloved sons and daughter-in-law: Neil K. Winchester of Chesapeake, Keith E. and Diane Winchester of Richmond and Timothy D. Winchester of Virginia Beach and Charlottesville. The lights of life, her grandchildren, are Tyler Winchester, Colin Winchester, Michael Winchester and Erin Winchester. She was preceded in death by her father, Dean C. Edens; her mother, Ola V. Roper Edens; and her sister, Joanne P. Edens Grobandt. Mary Dean had many wonderful friends who helped her during her illness. The family especially wishes to thank Virginia Fitts, Dawn Satterfield and her family for their care, concern and support. Mary Dean's family will receive friends and have a short memorial service at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, 1485 Kempsville Road, from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday with the Rev. Keith Moore officiating. Graveside services will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Pickens, S.C., March 14, 2009, at 2 p.m. Services will be conducted by Erick Turner, chaplain, U.S. Army National Guard. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.