Mary Agnes "Dolly" Lancaster

Mary A. Lancaster, affectionately known as “Dolly”, 89, of LaPlata, Maryland, transitioned peacefully on August 13, 2024, at her home surrounded by her devoted, loving daughters. Dolly was born on August 18, 1934, in Bel Alton, Maryland to the late Dorothy Wills and Joseph Lancaster. She attended Bel Alton High School in her earlier years. In1997, at the age of 63, she earned her high school diploma. This was one of her greatest achievements, and a proud moment for her entire family. Dolly began her career as an assistant chef and dishwasher at Howard Johnson’s Restaurant. She would work in this field for many years before making the decision to babysit for her growing family. She dedicated her life to her daughters and took so much joy in being the best grandmother to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She enjoyed spending quality time with her family and friends. Sunday dinners were a must, and all were welcomed. Her chef skills would continue in her own kitchen as her famous potato salad was an often request. Dolly had such a beautiful smile. She had a sweet, gentle, and compassionate spirit. Her inviting spirit and gift of hospitality has welcomed so many people into her heart and home. Also, she babysat for many other children. Dolly would love you like one of her own. Before anyone walked out of her door, she made sure to say, “I love you.” She made everyone around her feel loved. Dolly valued her family beyond everything, and she instilled that same value into her daughters, who then instilled that value into their children. This is a legacy of unconditional love, togetherness, faithfulness, and forgiveness that will live on for generations to come. Dolly enjoyed cooking, music, dancing, family gatherings, word search puzzles, collecting teddy bears, spending time with the family dog Sassy, and soap operas. Everyone knew that at a certain time of the day, you do not interrupt her soap operas. Dolly is preceded in death by James and Ella Briscoe (Aunt/ Uncle), Diane Butler (Daughter), Jamal Montgomery (Grandson), and Amari Montgomery (Great-Granddaughter). Dolly is survived by four daughters; Deborah Washington (Thomas Sr.), Lisa Montgomery, Roxsie Bannister (Sherwood), Michelle Briscoe, a special son-in-law Adrian Sr.; eight grandchildren; Gerald Butler (Amy), Sontaria Willett (Tyrone), Denika Morton (Elgie), Thomas Washington, Jr. (Tina), Jerome Montgomery, Jr., Adrian Briscoe Jr. (Shiquita), Isaac Briscoe, and Derron Washington; and 17 loving great grandchildren. Dolly also leaves to cherish in her memory a host of special cousins, family, and friends. Pallbearers: Gerald Butler, Thomas Washington, Jr., Jerome Montgomery, Jr., Adrian Briscoe, Jr., Isaac Briscoe, and Derron Washington. Honorary Pallbearers: Thomas Washington, Sr., Eric Lee, Sr., Sherwood Bannister, Adrian Briscoe, Sr., Elgie Morton, and Tyrone Willett Acknowledgements: The family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks and sincere appreciation for the flowers, calls, texts, messages, visits, and words of comfort during this difficult time. A special thanks to Hospice of Chesapeake care team, Love to Care (Lawanda Estep), and Nikita Smoot for the loving care and compassion given to our mother. A special acknowledgement to Katina Yates-Reid, Tabatha Duckett, and Kim Pinkney for their support and generosity during our time of bereavement. Love, Dolly’s Girls

Mary Agnes "Dolly" Lancaster

August 18, 1934 - August 13, 2024