Mary Alice Berkley - Obituary

ary Alice Berkley (Jackson), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on August 26, 2025, at the remarkable age of 102, surrounded by the love of her family. Mary was born on August 13, 1923, in Washington, D.C., to Edward Jackson and Alice Jackson (King). She grew up in a close-knit family, sharing her early years with her siblings, and carrying with her a strong sense of family and community that would guide her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, her cherished husband Frederick Berkley, her daughter Pamela Emery, her son Timothy Berkley, as well as one sister and four brothers. Mary graduated from Suitland High School in 1940. Shortly after, she began working as a telephone operator for the Bell Telephone Company, where she was affectionately known as "Jackie." Since there were two employees named Mary, her coworkers started calling her Jackie—a nickname derived from her last name, Jackson—to tell them apart. In 1946, Mary's life took a joyful turn when she met Frederick Berkley, a Marine stationed in Washington, D.C. Their connection was immediate, and soon they married, building a life together filled with love, laughter, and family. Together they raised two children, nurturing a household grounded in care, respect, and warmth. Mary devoted much of her life to service and community. She was a dedicated member of VFW Post 9619 in Morningside, Maryland, actively participating in both the Women’s Auxiliary and the Military Order of the Cootie Auxillary (MOC). Her compassion and dedication extended to volunteering countless hours at veterans’ homes throughout Maryland, ensuring that those who served our country felt honored and supported. She also held a treasured place in her church family at Oxon Hill United Methodist Church. Family was at the heart of Mary's life. She adored spending time with her grandchildren—Chrissy Peters (Carl) of Virginia, David Roylance (Sara) of Thailand, and Lindsey Berkley of Virginia—sharing stories, laughter, and life lessons. Her love extended to her great-grandchildren, Christopher, Tammy (Lawrence), Niki, Bilhan, Khalaya, and Makai, and her great-great-grandchildren, Kamiah, Aubrie, Kilo, Alistair, Laelani, Jace, and Nikoa, each of whom brought her immense joy. She was also a cherished aunt to nephews Mitchell (Susan) and Michael King, and niece Sharon Jackson. Mary experienced a massive amount of love from others, because she gave out a massive amount of love to others. She truly loved everyone, all beings. Mary’s hobbies were simple yet meaningful. She found pleasure in crocheting, putting puzzles together, and working on word finds, but her greatest joy came from the moments spent with her family. Her gentle spirit, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those she loved made a lasting impression on all who knew her. Mary Alice Berkley lived a life rich with love, service, and grace. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and devotion—a shining example of a life well-lived. Mary’s family will receive visitors for her viewing on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Kalas Funeral Home in Oxon Hill, Maryland. A service will follow at 11:00 AM. She will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband at 1:00 PM at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery in Cheltenham, Maryland. Relatives and friends are invited to Mary's Life Celebration on Friday, October 3, 2025 from 10 A.M. until the start of the service at 11 A.M. at the KALAS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Internment to follow at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery, 11301 Crain Highway, Cheltenham, MD 20623.