Mary-Belew-Obituary

Photo courtesy of Anderson Funeral Service - Crozet

Mary Maupin Belew

Mar 1, 1928 - Nov 21, 2025

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Mary has always been and will continue to be remembered as a symbol of hope and happiness for everyone. I treasured her smiles, positive outlook, and her adorable caps. Mary, Judy, and I collaborated on a transaction, and she was always kind and appreciative of my efforts.

Mary was a beautiful and loving person who always put others before herself. We have known this wonderful family for many years and send our prayers as well as our heartfelt sympathy to all her family and to all those who had the great opportunity to know her. Rest in peace, Mary.

My love goes out to all of my cousins and other family members. What a beautiful display of love you all showed in being there for Aunt Mary during her final days. Much love to all, Teresa

Now we say farewell to our beloved Mary. She passed the torch to the family she so cherished and leaves us with remarkable memories. She believed in her creator and studied her faith in preparation for her final exam. SHE PASSED.. It’s said, a good death only comes after a good life. She preached to us how to live, not from the pulpit, but by example as to how to live. Ninety seven years of living deserves an eternal rest. RIP Aunt Mary.

Obituary

Mary's Obituary

Mary Maupin Belew, of Yancey Mills, died peacefully at the age of 97, on November 21, 2025, following a brief hospitalization.  Born in Crozet on March 1, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Levi P. and Alberta Sandridge Maupin.  

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband of just under 50 years, J. Mason Belew, as well as her cherished brother, Levi P. Maupin, Jr. (wife Mary Louise) and dear sister, Jean M. Patterson (husband Mitchell).  

She is survived by three devoted children:  Jerry M. Belew of Philadelphia; Judy Belew Hogberg (and husband Dennis), who lived with Mary in Yancey Mills and provided loving care in recent years; and Daniel L. Belew (and wife Becky) of Afton.  She also leaves behind four very special grandchildren:  Michael Hogberg (Amanda); Shanna Hogberg Lovaglio (Robert); Brandon Belew (Kate); and Bonnie Belew Chapman (Troy).  

Additionally missing her now are four dear great-grandchildren:  Mason and Lexi Chapman, and Luca and Leo Lovaglio; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and their families.  Of special note are nephews Bill and Johnny Patterson, who were sister Jean's sons, and for whom Mary provided childcare in their early years.  Her brother Levi's four daughters, Suzanne and Melanie Maupin, Jennie LaValley, and Teresa Rayman, also brought her great joy, as did the many nieces and nephews on Mason's side of the family.

Mary was a faithful member of Crozet United Methodist Church since 1937, and had attended services there regularly, right on through the Sunday before she entered the hospital. Her memory will long be cherished by "Pastor Christy" and church friends, too.

Mary graduated from Crozet High School in 1945, and worked for a time at Essex Pencil Company in Charlottesville.  She and Mason started their married life at the Maupin homestead, "The Green Teapot,” in Yancey Mills.

In 1955, they moved with their young children to Cherry Hill Farm, near Ivy, where Mason had been hired as manager.  Despite the hard work, Mary loved the farm life.  They raised chickens and hogs, occasionally adopted an orphan lamb, and grew an impressive garden.  

Mary kept busy cooking, baking, canning, and freezing.  Her hand-churned butter and seven-day sweet pickles were highly sought after.  Family favorites included her macaroni and cheese, chocolate chip cookies, and fried oysters on Christmas morning.  Her greatest joys were spending time with family and celebrating Christmas.  Mary moved back to "The Green Teapot,” as a widow, 55 years after leaving it for Cherry Hill.

Anderson's Funeral Home of Crozet is handling funeral arrangements.  The funeral will be held at Crozet United Methodist Church at 1:00pm on Tuesday, November 25.  A brief graveside service will be held immediately following at Rockgate Cemetery in Crozet.  The family requests that in lieu of sending flowers, friends consider donating to Crozet United Methodist Church (P.O. Box 70, Crozet, VA 22932), Western Albemarle Rescue Squad  (P.O. Box 188, Crozet,  VA 22932), or a favorite charity.

 

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