Mary Elizabeth Harris, journalist, volunteer
Mary Elizabeth Harris, 81, peacefully joined her Creator Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, in Midlothian, Va. Since her return to Virginia in 2018, Mary actively cared for her three beloved grandchildren and her constant companion, her dearest little cat, Mia. She and her family were supported this past year by the good people of Hospice of Virginia.
Mary lived in Lewes between 2005 and 2018, where she volunteered her writing and editing skills to Coastal Concerts and Metropolitan Community Church. Her interests also included Rehoboth Beach Film Society, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, and attending lectures at College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment and Prime Hook Nature Center. She also enjoyed participating in a book club, and traveled extensively to national and state parks and various cities to attend a variety of performing arts, with a special love of symphony and musicals.
The only child of the late John H. and Lillian W. Harris, Mary grew up in Wilkesboro, N.C., and graduated from UNC at Chapel Hill majoring in journalism and English literature, including a summer intensive Shakespeare immersion experience. Immediately following graduation, Mary served as a caseworker for the Department of Public Welfare in Charleston, S.C. Her commitment to equity and compassion for all people continued throughout her life in various employment and volunteer commitments. She spent the following decades living and working as a technical writer for government and private employers in South Carolina, California, Connecticut, Northern Ireland, and Virginia before retiring first in Lewes and then to Midlothian.
Mary is survived by her two children and their families, Erich von Gehr, his wife Jessica, and daughters Ally and Emma, and Anna E. Powers, her husband Joseph L. Powers Jr., and their daughter Dorothea. She is remembered by the Metropolitan Community Church members, several cousins, and a community of friends and nonprofit organizations for her wit, intelligence, kindness, service, and compassion.
Funeral services will be private.
Mary requested that memorial donations go to Earthjustice, 50 California St., Ste. 500, San Franciso, CA 94111.
