Mary Via

Mary Via

Mary Paige Via, age 76, of Williamsburg, Va., left this world peacefully, Thursday morning, October 16, 2025, at Kings Grant Retirement Center, to begin her last and greatest journey.

Paige was born September 30, 1949, in Patrick County, Va., and was a graduate of Hardin Reynolds School and Guilford College. She had a long and successful career with Thomasville Furniture.

Being raised on a family farm she learned early: the rewards of hard work, when you give your word it is your bond, and love of family. She strived throughout her life to do and be the best at whatever she attempted.

Moving to California in 1976 as newly hired Sales Representative, she learned her craft well and was soon given the opportunity to become Thomasville's first female Government Sales Representative. She blazed a new trail visiting all military bases in a territory covering Idaho to Alaska, the U.S. West Coast, and all bases located in the Pacific Rim. At smaller airports, many airline baggage handlers knew Paige had arrived when they saw her four to six oversized heavy suitcases coming down the baggage conveyor belt.

Paige was known for her beautiful smile, kindness to others, impeccable manners, and continued in the tradition taught by her mother to always be properly dressed for all occasions. She had a passion for quality clothing and was truly a classy lady. She was a supporter of many various children and animal non-profits, helping those in need. She loved all animals, but the German Shorthaired Pointer breed held a special place in her heart.

Paige was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward Lee Beard and her parents, Mazie and Willie Via. She is survived by her sister, Liz Via; niece, Cameron Kolinski; grandnephew, Stetson Rogers; aunt, Carroll Lawson; her stepchildren, Kelly Martinez and family, Joey Beard and family; and her "Big Brother", Gary Rigoletti.

A memorial service will be held at Norris Funeral Home, Stuart, Va., on Wednesday, October 22 at 2 p.m. with family visitation at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations made be made to Patrick County Alzheimer's Group or Salem Church.

Her family would like to express their gratitude to the wonderful employees at Kings Grant memory care unit and health services unit and the Mountain Valley Hospice for their wonderful care and kindness.