Mary Elizabeth Moody

Mary Elizabeth Moody, a beloved sister, aunt, teacher, and friend, passed away on July 21, 2025, at the age of 71. Mary was born in Washington, DC and grew up in La Plata, MD. She attended Archbishop Neale School and graduated from Notre Dame of Maryland University with a degree in education. Teaching was more than a career – it was her calling. Mary spent over four decades in the classroom, beginning with her first classroom at Archbishop Neale and leaving her mark during more than 30 years at Dundalk Middle School in Baltimore, where she taught language arts and inspired generations of students. Mary was the heart of her close-knit family, known affectionately as “Itzy,” a nickname lovingly given to her as a newborn by her older brother Denny. Mary was sunshine personified – she brought warmth, humor, and joy to every room she entered. A generous listener and an animated storyteller – with the memory of an elephant – Mary made the people in her life feel seen, heard, and deeply loved. Her presence was magnetic – full of wisdom, wit, and contagious laughter. She poured herself into the happiness of others, especially her nieces and nephews, who adored her. Mary had a deep love for music, especially Harry Chapin, John Prine, and Bruce Springsteen, whom she saw perform just last year at Camden Yards. She loved baking (her signature chocolate chip cookies were legendary), reading, and traveling. Last year, she made the journey to Egypt for her niece Laura’s wedding, and she was eagerly planning a trip to Greece this fall. Whether she was working on a puzzle, enjoying a glass of wine, or simply sitting on the beach, Mary brought lightness and joy to every moment. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, John and Eleanor Moody. She is survived by her siblings: Madeline (Don) Henderson of Burke, VA; Ann Moody of Sterling, VA; Martha (Robert) Nielsen of Boyds, MD; and Dennis (Learose) Moody of Youngstown, OH. She was a devoted and cherished aunt to Brian (Perri) Henderson; Jill Loven; Gina Moody; Andrew (Kim) Moody; Alyssa Moody, John (Theresa) Nielsen; and Laura (Ahmed) Nielsen, and 11 great nieces and nephews. Her absence leaves an unfillable space in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Mary Star of the Sea in Indian Head, Maryland, at 11am on Wednesday, July 30th to honor and celebrate Mary’s beautiful life. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 29th from 6-8pm at Raymond Funeral Service in La Plata, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary’s memory to Archbishop Neale School, an act she would have deeply appreciated.

Mary Elizabeth Moody

March 30, 1954 - July 21, 2025