Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Mary Ostrowski Obituary
Ostrowski's sister, Beth Hundman, says Ostrowski died Friday night in Bristol, Va. Hundman says her sister was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, in 2007, and she died from complications from the illness.
While at Tennessee, Ostrowski helped the Lady Vols advance to NCAA Final Fours in 1981, 1982 and 1984. She was an SEC All-Tournament Team member and an All-SEC selection in 1982 and 1984.
Ostrowski ranks fifth in rebounds and 10th in points at Tennessee. She was inducted into the Lady Vols Hall of Fame in 2006.
A message expressing condolences was posted on former Tennessee coach Pat Summitt's Twitter account.
"Thinking of Mary O today. Love and prayers for her family. Once a Lady Vol, always a Lady Vol," the message said.
Ostrowski, a 6-foot-2 forward, also was a member of the United States team from 1981 to 1983. She earned a gold medal at the 1983 World University Games.
As a standout at Parkersburg Catholic High School in West Virginia, Ostrowski was the first female winner and a three-time recipient of the Russell A. Thom Award, which is presented to West Virginia's top basketball player.
Ostrowski had been staying at her sister's home in Bristol, where she received hospice care, Hundman said. Hundman described her sister as compassionate, humble person who didn't call attention to her basketball success.
"One of the things people keep saying is what a kind and gentle soul she was," Hundman said. "That is so true.
Hundman said a memorial "celebration" has been scheduled for next Saturday at the Knights of Columbus in Parkersburg, W. Va.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
28 Entries
Rick Sanderson
August 8, 2021
I knew Mary in Knoxville and when she working at a store in West Knoxville. I had broke. My thumb playing basketball and wearing a cast when Mary came up and asked what happened to my hand. When I told her we played pick up ball twice a week, she asked if she could join us. Of course! She was such a nice lady, and a fine fine ball player. She had a great sense of humor and we loved her like one of the guys, only one who could whip every one of us in one on one,
I was sad to see when I searched for her to see she had passed away so young. I just felt compelled to write this to honor someone I have thought about kindly many times over the years.
Penny Huey
September 24, 2015
I attended Parkersburg Catholic High School with Mary O, we were teammates she was Sr Varsity me Jr. Wasn't aware of her passing. Have thought of her many times throughout the years & will cherish her. Penny Florence Huey Kilgore, Texas
January 16, 2014
You will always be a great memory - Doc Folickman
How you can show support
October 10, 2013
I vividly remember Mary and Beth. Fair Winds and following seas. Love you Beth.
August 21, 2013
Sorry for your loss and may God place his hand on Mary and her family during this difficult time....
Bankston
July 26, 2013
I am sorry for your loss.May the God of all comfort be with you.
Mary Kemp
July 25, 2013
May you be in peace.
Rachael Pallay
July 25, 2013
My prayers and sympathy for the Ostrowski family. Mary was a very sweet, gentle soul. God bless.
Rachael Pallay
Bexley, Ohio
July 25, 2013
I am sorry for your loss. Find comfort in the fact that our Heavenly Father knows what you're going through. (1 John 3:20) Rely on Him for comfort during this time.
July 24, 2013
MAY GOD GIVE THE FAMILY PEACE."HAPPY ARE THE MERICIFUL,SINCE THEY WILL BE SHOWN MERCY." matt,5:7.....~~
Roni Holland
July 23, 2013
RIP my sister. GMU Lady Patriot alum
July 23, 2013
Rest well. My condolences to her family.
michelle plakas-kaiser
July 23, 2013
rip
G. Freeman
July 23, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
MD Wingo
July 23, 2013
From a UTK Alumni who remembers your on the court play in th 80's, you made us proud and sad to see your life's journey ended so soon.
Play down the court for a bucket sweet woman and we will see you on the big court one future day.
Jane Dowling
July 23, 2013
God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.
Ed
July 23, 2013
While Mary peacefully rest, may her family and friends find solace in prayer at this sorrowful time. Jehovah cares and will help you endure. 1 Peter 5:6, 7
Christine Gibson
July 22, 2013
Family
Know that she will be missed as she takes her skills to the next level . . . God is good all the time. What a humble lady who will always be a star. God bless the family.
Mary is looking down with that smile and is in no pain. Keep her memory alive.
Sincerely
Mary Meredith
July 22, 2013
Mary O you are now with the Heavenly Father. God Bless You. May you now RIP Lady Vol......................
ivy
July 22, 2013
God Bless You Sweet Soul.
July 22, 2013
So sorry to hear of this, she was an shining light.
JW Lowder
July 22, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
The Earland Family
July 22, 2013
Please accept my sincere condolences at this time. It is obvious that your family will miss this special person in your lives. May the peace promised in God's word (John 14:27) be active and may you all be helped to endure these times.
ROBINSON
July 22, 2013
MY CONDOLENCE DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME
Linda
July 22, 2013
Trusting in Jehovah's Promises
Comfort for your sorrow,
courage for each day,
Strength to face this journey,
His Word to light your way,
His peace to fill your heart,
although you may not understand,
And his love to hold you gently
in the hollow of His hand. My deepest sympathy in your loss.
James Willner
July 22, 2013
May the eternal light shine upon her....
Showing 1 - 28 of 28 results
Make a Donation
in Mary Ostrowski's name
How to support Mary's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mary Ostrowski's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored