Colbert, Mary Christine (Age 73) of North Bethesda, Maryland.

Mary Christine Colbert was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on December 25, 1939 to Anna Mae Colbert. She departed this life on August 8, 2013, at the age of 73. Mary was raised by her devoted maternal grandparents, Lee and Frances Colbert, whom she loved dearly. She spoke often of her grandfather, whom she called Daddy, and the numerous values he instilled in her during her formative years, the most salient being, a strong faith in God and obedience to His word. Even at the age of 73, she could still vividly recall the love and comfort felt while being held as a child in her grandmother's arms. Her grandparents raised her in Washington, PA along with Alberta and Clinoth, the youngest of their six children, where she would graduate from Washington High School. After graduation, she attended business school in Pittsburgh before relocating to Washington, DC.

Mary attended Temple University, Howard University, and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland. She was employed by Dr. Benetta Washington as an executive assistant prior to entering the Federal Government, where she had a career with Health & Human Services for over 40 years.

After her retirement, she enjoyed her favorite pastime, shopping and dining out. Mary enjoyed life and could seldom be found home after 10am. She loved being active. She was also an avid reader, and a regular visitor of libraries. Mary had a very loving and kind spirit, and preferred to focus on the good in people rather than their flaws.

She was also a very spiritual person, loved the Lord, and enjoyed reading the Bible, attending church, listening to gospel music, and discussing Jesus and His influence in her life. Due to illness, Mary was unable to continue attending church. However, her spirituality never wavered. She was an excellent friend and confidante to many, and would frequently reference Bible scripture to help others cope with life's adversity.

Mary is predeceased by her mother, Annie Colbert; grandparents, Lee and Frances Colbert; uncles, Edward, John, and Clinoth Colbert; aunts, Louise Colbert and Alberta Artis; and cousin, DeWayne Colbert.

Mary is survived by a devoted aunt, Rosa Colbert, of Fort Washington, MD; cousins whom she considered her siblings, James and Pearl Colbert, and Lynn Fuller, all of Lawrence, PA; other dear cousins and friends. She will be missed dearly by all who loved her, but her cherished memory will remain in their hearts and minds forever.

Mary fought a courageous battle against ovarian cancer, and was blessed to have staunch support from her loving family and devoted friends. She made her transition from temporary life on earth, to eternal life with Jesus surrounded by the comforting love of her aunt, Rose; and cousins, Deb, Larry, and Branden.

Rest in peace, Mary. Well done!

Viewing 10:00 am until time of service, 11:00 am, Saturday, August 17, 2013 in the Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Interment, Cedar Hill Cemetery, Suitland, Maryland.