Mary Jeffrey Mollen

MOLLEN, Mary Jeffrey, 72, died on June 10, 2024, in Richmond, VA. She was born August 5, 1951, in Uniontown, PA, to George and Betty Jeffrey. She was the eldest of three sisters, for whom she acted as a second mother. Caring for others, particularly children, became a calling throughout her life.

She graduated from high school in Bassett, VA, in 1969 and earned a registered nursing degree at Medical College of Virginia in 1973. While working there, she met Ed, her husband of 48 years. She earned a degree as a pediatric nurse practitioner and had nearly completed a master's program at UVA when the first of their four sons was born.

She went back to work as a preschool assistant teacher at the Richmond JCC when her youngest son was excited to start preschool there. She then followed him to St. Christopher's School, where she worked at, and eventually became manager of, the school bookstore. She grew the store and loved seeing the thousands of boys and girls who shopped.

Shortly after the births of her two grandchildren, Mary bought The Toy Center, a Richmond West End icon and her dream job. A lifelong children's book lover, the book section was often praised for its unique selections. As the store owner, she donated toys and books to children at St. Mary's Hospital and the Bon Secours Hospitality House.

Mary was proud to be Jewish by choice and became Bat Mitzvah in Rabbi Creditor's Adult B'nai Mitzvah Class. She loved the holidays and hosted large family gatherings where her hospitality and excellent cooking skills were well appreciated.

Mary is survived by her two sisters, Martha and Ruth; her husband, Dr. Edward Mollen; her four sons, Shawn, Michael, Eric and Christopher; two daughters-in-law, Alexandria and Andrea; her two grandchildren, Penelope and Connor; and many other lovingly held extended family members.

Special thanks to the nurses, physicians, staff and house staff at VCU Health and VCU Palliative Care, and to the nurses, physicians and staff at St. Mary's Hospital.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 14, 2024, in the Chapel at Richmond Beth-El Cemetery at Forest Lawn, 4000 Pilots Ln, Richmond, VA 23222. A livestream of her funeral can be found at www.blileys.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Temple Beth-El, Bon Secours Hospitality House, MCV Foundation, ChildSavers or the charity of your choice.