Mary Catherine Gleeson

1925 - 2024

Mary Catherine Gleeson, born on August 15, 1925, in Mitchell, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at her home in Alexandria, Virginia on July 2, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of William Ryan and Mary Catherine Ryan. Growing up on a farm as one of ten siblings, Mary spent her first 18 years in Mitchell, SD where she excelled academically and graduated as the valedictorian of her high school class.

After high school, Mary moved to Omaha, NE. to pursue a nursing degree. It was there she met and married John, her husband of 72 years. Upon completing her nursing studies and John his medical degree, they moved to Vail, Iowa, where they established a medical practice to serve the local farming community. Mary was John's right hand in the practice. With a calming presence she demonstrated her selfless dedication and skills.

After several relocations, Mary and John eventually settled in Alexandria, Virginia, where they raised their seven children: Kathleen (William) Butler, Annette Gleeson, Janet (Robert Jastrzebski ) Thomas, Patricia (Gregory) Rowan, Timothy (Pamela) Gleeson, Edward Gleeson, and Theresa (Edward) Bielecki. Mary was also a proud grandmother to Patrick , Timothy, Kellie, Franny, Megan, Ryan, Rick, Meredith, Catie, Andrew and Julia and two great-grandchildren, Sienna and Michael.

Mary was a devoted wife, mother, and "Mimi," always placing the needs of her family and others before her own. She managed her husband's busy medical practice while tending to her children's needs, always with a warm home-cooked meal and often one of her delicious homemade pies. Mary loved gardening and was a voracious reader. Her home was a haven of activity, love, and hospitality, always open to others.

Mary is predeceased by her cherished husband, John Joseph Gleeson, and her siblings: Alice Vickers, Patricia Nolan, Thomas Ryan, Rosanne Barack, Ruth Novak, Rita Gies, Colleen Paris, and Richard Ryan. She is survived by her brother, James Ryan of Tulsa Oklahoma and her sister-in-law, Nan Lahey of Wichita Kansas.

Mary Catherine Gleeson will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, dedication, and warmth will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
A visitation will take place Wednesday July 10, 2 to 4 p.m. or 5 to 7 p.m. at Everly Wheatley Funeral Home 1500 West Braddock Rd., Alexandria VA A mass of Christian burial will take place July 11, 10 a.m. at Saint Rita Church, 3801 Russell Rd., Alexandria, VA followed by the burial at Ivy Hill Cemetery, 2823 King St. Alexandria, VA.

In lieu of flowers the family ask you to consider a donation to two of Mary's favorite charities, SOME (So others might eat) and Catholic Charities.