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Elizabeth McNamara Obituary

7/25/1928 - 5/3/2025

Elizabeth E. McNamara, of Alexandria, VA, a woman of quiet elegance and heartfelt devotion, passed away peacefully at the age of 96.

Known to friends and family as Betty, she had a warm sense of humor and natural charisma that made those around her feel cherished. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, and mother whose care extended to every detail of life—from the artful way she wrapped gifts to the precise folds of freshly laundered linens. Her home reflected the same loving attention she gave to her family: orderly, welcoming, and filled with touches of creativity.

Betty was an artist at heart. Her hands were rarely still—sewing, crafting, or sculpting, most memorably creating a cherished clay nativity scene that became a family treasure. She was also an avid reader of mystery novels and a lover of crossword puzzles, which she approached with the same sharp wit and quiet determination that marked her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerome T. McNamara, with whom she shared 62 loving years of marriage.

Betty is survived by her sister, Jane Edwards; her four children: Marian R. Fraser (Alex), Patricia K. Armstrong (the late Charlie Armstrong), Megan M. Churchill, and Sean A. McNamara (Kenneth Poole); her six grandchildren: Toby and Adam Boudreau, Kate and Maggie Armstrong, and George and Griffin Churchill; and her two great-grandchildren.

Her memory lives on in their lives and in the many quiet, beautiful things she shaped with her love.

No Services at this time. In lieu of flowers, please give a handmade gift to someone you love.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on May 12, 2025.

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Debra (Fradin) Brand

May 10, 2025

Mrs McNamara was always welcoming with a loving and beautiful smile. She was beautiful inside and out. May her memory be a blessing to her family and all who knew her.

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