Mary Catherine (Evans) Washington

Charlotte, North Carolina

September 22, 1946- November 12, 2024

It is with profound sadness and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Mary Catherine Washington of Saginaw, MI. A woman of unwavering faith, Mary lived her life as a devoted servant of God, an advocate for her community, and a cherished matriarch. She departed this life on November 12, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and inspiration grounded in her strong Christian beliefs.

Born on September 22, 1946, in Opelousas, Louisiana, Mary embraced a deep relationship with Christ that became the foundation of her life. Her faith influenced every role she held, whether as a loving sister, aunt, grandmother, or great-grandmother. She instilled her values and spiritual principles in her children, ensuring her family remained anchored in God’s teachings.

Mary dedicated nearly 30 years as a Community Affairs Specialist for Senator Carl Levin, where she demonstrated her faith through tireless advocacy for the underserved, ensuring every voice was heard and every need met. She was a shining example of servant leadership, letting her compassion and sense of justice reflect God’s love in action.

Mary's dedication extended beyond her professional career into the heart of her community. She ensured every corner of her neighborhood was beautified with flowers she purchased and planted. Her passion for nurturing youth led her to create a group for inner-city teens, exposing them to the arts through theater. These teens performed plays Mary wrote, traveling locally and beyond, gaining exposure to diverse environments and opportunities to stay out of trouble.

Mary spearheaded transformative initiatives as the former President of the North East Saginaw Neighborhood Association. She organized neighborhood clean-ups to promote pride and unity. She also launched the Tulip Exchange Program, which brought children from diverse backgrounds together through beautification projects. Additionally, she served on the Saginaw County Library Board, working to improve access to essential educational and technological resources for underserved families and youth. Her selflessness and passion earned her the Jefferson Award for Public Service, one of the highest honors for civic engagement in the United States.

Mary's creative spirit shined brightly through her love of theater and storytelling. She founded the Baraka Actors Group, a platform for local talent that brought the community together through her plays during the 1980s and 1990s. Earlier in her life, she taught modern dance classes to promote health and joy within inner-city neighborhoods. She was also known for her thoughtful generosity, organizing holiday food basket deliveries to ensure no one in her community felt forgotten.

During the holidays in earlier years, Mary would organize neighbors and youth to go Christmas caroling, spreading joy to those who might not experience such love during the season. This act of kindness was featured in Saginaw's local news, highlighting her dedication to fostering warmth and connection in the community.

One of Mary's most cherished projects was the development of a Prayer Garden at Unity Park in Saginaw, MI. This serene space became a haven for those seeking peace, reflection, and healing. This sanctuary stood as a testament to her deep spiritual roots and her commitment to creating a place where others could draw closer to God.

Mary treasured time with her family, finding joy in laughter, cooking, and creating lasting memories with her children and grandchildren. Mary's love of cooking, especially her celebrated Creole dishes, earned her recognition in the Saginaw Newspaper, where her culinary talents were praised. Her love for the arts, theater, and storytelling left an indelible mark on her community.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Priscilla and Edward Evans, and her siblings, Eddie Evans, Geraldine Evans, and Sandra Evans.

She is survived by her former husband and lifelong friend, Obie Washington, with whom she shared six beautiful children: daughters LaTonya Archibald, Bianca Randolph, Anica Wooten, Naija Washington, Chaniqua Washington, and her son Cordell Washington. Mary's loving legacy continues through her 19 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, as well as her siblings Betty Wayne, Judy High, Trudy Hardimon, Marie Evans, Carolyn Evans, and Terry Evans. She also leaves behind a host of cherished nieces, nephews, in-laws, and other relatives who will truly miss her presence.

Mary’s unshakable faith in God, her love for others, and her life of service will continue to inspire all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the Savior she served so faithfully.

A Funeral to Celebrate the Life of Mary will be held Monday, November 25, 2024 at Roseboro's Mortuary Chapel, 4300 Statesville Road, Charlotte, North Carolina. Visitation will begin at 11:30am and Funeral Service will follow at 12:30pm. 

Interment will be held in Gethsemane Memorial Gardens, 1504 W. Sugar Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28262.

The Washington family have entrusted arrangements to Roseboro's Mortuary & Crematory.

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